AtGATA5 acts as a novel regulator in secondary cell wall biosynthesis by modulating NAC-domain transcription factors in Arabidopsis thaliana

Abstract The plant cell wall is composed of a primary and secondary cell wall. The secondary cell wall (SCW) plays a crucial role in the movement of nutrients and water and serves as a barrier against pathogens and environmental stresses. However, the biosynthesis of the SCW is complex, involving a network of genes regulated by environmental factors, including light. In this study, we investigated the nuclear localization of AtGATA5 to determine its potential role as a transcription factor and its involvement in SCW formation. To explore changes in leaf phenotypes in overexpression AtGATA5 and the thickening of interfascicular fiber cells, we conducted a transient activity assay using Arabidopsis protoplasts. The results demonstrated that AtGATA5 can up-regulate NAC-domain transcription factors, which are master regulators of the SCW biosynthesis pathway. Furthermore, gene expression analysis in plants confirmed that as AtGATA5 expression increased, the expression levels of NAC-domain transcription factors also increased. These findings suggest that AtGATA5 plays a functional role in SCW formation by up-regulating master regulators in the SCW biosynthesis pathway. Overall, AtGATA5 may act as a novel regulator of SCW biosynthesis, offering insights into potential application.