A positive feedback loop of ‘MPK3-PIN1A trafficking-auxin flux’ trio governs dual gravitropic and wounding response in rice

The auxin flow in plants plays a pivotal role in gravitropic organ movement and tissue regeneration following injury. However, the regulatory aspects of these phenomena are not entirely understood. In this study, we found that hyperactivity of MAP Kinase 3 (MPK3) led to downregulation of PINs and reduction in tissue auxin content, impairing gravitropic response of rice and accelerating tissue senescence following mechanical wounding. The MPK3 was found to phosphorylate PIN1A majorly at its Ser ³⁵¹ residue, mutation of which into its phospho-mimic variant enhanced latter’s endosomal trafficking and consequently improved auxin flux. Further, overexpression of the phospho-null variant of PIN1A lowered gravitropic response of rice, thus causing wider tiller angle similar to the pin1a knockout lines. Additionally, upon wounding, their tissue senescence was faster in comparison to the overexpression lines of wild-type and phospho-mimic variants of PIN1A , which also displayed improved resistance to wounding by Bipolaris oryzae . The PIN1A trafficking-mediated auxin flux also regulated MPK3 activity via a positive feedback loop. Together, these results uncover a novel feedback loop encompassing “MPK3-PIN1A trafficking-auxin flux” trio that regulates dual gravitropic and wounding response in rice.