Maize (Zea mays L.) Nucleoskeletal Proteins Regulate Nuclear Envelope Remodeling and Function in Stomatal Complex Development and Pollen Viability

In eukaryotes, the nuclear envelope (NE) encloses chromatin and separates it from rest of cell. The Linker Nucleoskeleton Cytoskeleton (LINC) complex physically bridges across NE, linking cytoplasmic components. plants, these LINC complexes are beginning to be ascribed roles in cellular functions, including organization, regulation nuclei shape movement, cell division. Homologs core components, KASH SUN proteins, have previously been identified maize. Here, we characterized presumed LINC-associated maize nucleoskeletal proteins NCH1 NCH2, homologous members plant NMCP/CRWN family, MKAKU41, AtKAKU4. All three localized periphery when transiently heterologously expressed as fluorescent protein fusions Nicotiana benthamiana . Overexpression MKAKU41 caused dramatic changes organization periphery, invaginations that stained positive for non-nucleoplasmic markers inner outer NE membranes, ER. severity was altered by connections actin cytoskeleton. maize, appeared share genetic functions with other control shape, stomatal development, pollen viability. Overall, our data show NCH1, characteristic properties interactions components suggestive at impact overall architecture.