Zinc Finger-Homeodomain (ZHD) and Mini Zinc Finger (MIF) proteins are key players in plant growth and responses to environmental stresses
Résumé
The ZINC-FINGER HOMEODOMAIN (ZHD) protein family is a plant-specific family of transcription factors containing two conserved motifs: a non-canonical C5H3 zinc-finger domain (ZF) and a DNA-binding homeodomain (HD). The MINI ZINC FINGER (MIF) proteins belong to this family, but possibly derived from the ZHDs by losing the HD. Information regarding the function of ZHD and MIF proteins is scarce. However, different studies have shown that ZHD/MIF proteins play important roles not only in plant growth and development, but also in response to environmental stresses, including drought and pathogens attack. We here review recent advances relative to ZHD/MIF functions in multiple species, to provide new insights about the diverse roles of these transcription factors in plants. Their mechanism of action in relation with their ability to interact with other proteins and DNA will also be discussed. We then propose directions for future studies to understand better their important roles and pinpoint strategies for potential applications in crop improvement.