Comprehensive molecular genetic characterization of the ICE1 gene in Arum korolkowii and functional insights into its encoded protein

Nagiyeva A. Alpamyssova G. Ametov Y. Tursunboev H. Allamuratov M. Aytmuratova Z. Alpisbaeva A. Bekniyazova D. Yeginbay A. Burabaev A. Burabaev A.
April 2025 University of Guilan

Caspian Journal of Environmental Sciences
2025 #23 Issue 2 355 - 367 pp.

A novel gene, AkICE1, and the protein it encodes were molecularly and genetically characterized from Arum korolkowii, a rare endemic species listed in Kazakhstans Red Book. This plant faces increasing threats from environmental stress, particularly cold stress, exacerbated by climate change. Understanding the genetic mechanisms that underlie cold stress tolerance in such endemic species is critical for conservation and biodiversity preservation. The complete sequence of the AkICE1 gene (2847 bp) was obtained and deposited in GenBank (accession number OR736143). The gene comprises three exons and two introns, encoding a protein of 545 amino acids. Bioinformatic analysis revealed that AkICE1 shares conserved domains with other ICE1 proteins, such as the MYC-like basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) domain, a serine-rich region (S-rich), and a zipper region (ZIP), all of which are typical of cold stress-related transcription factors. The protein also contains a nuclear localization signal (NLS), suggesting its role in the nucleus as a transcription factor. Additionally, the presence of a sumoylation site, which is crucial for the activation and stability of ICE1 proteins, was identified in AkICE1, indicating that its activity may be regulated by SUMO E3 ligase. The structural analysis predicted 8 alpha helices, 3 beta turns, and 11 coils in the protein, with phosphorylation sites for serine, threonine, and tyrosine residues, further supporting its involvement in cold stress regulation. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that AkICE1 shares the highest sequence similarity with the ICE1 gene of Colocasia esculenta, highlighting its functional conservation within the Aroid family. These findings establish AkICE1 as a novel ICE1-like transcription factor that likely plays a crucial role in cold stress adaptation in A. korolkowii. The study contributes to understanding the molecular mechanisms of cold stress regulation in endemic species, which can aid in the development of conservation strategies and breeding programs aimed at improving the resilience of A. korolkowii and other endemic plants to environmental stresses.

AkICE1 , Cold stress , Endemic species , Molecular characterization , Transcription factor

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Zhangir Khan West Kazakhstan University, Kazakhstan
Department of Biotechnology, M. Auezov South Kazakhstan University, Shymkent, 160000, Kazakhstan
Karakalpak State University named after Berdakh, Faculty of Biology, Nukus, 230112, Uzbekistan
South Kazakhstan Medical Academy, Shymkent, 160000, Kazakhstan

Zhangir Khan West Kazakhstan University
Department of Biotechnology
Karakalpak State University named after Berdakh
South Kazakhstan Medical Academy

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