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The diversity and distribution of D1 proteins in cyanobacteria

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Abstract

The psbA gene family in cyanobacteria encodes different forms of the D1 protein that is part of the Photosystem II reaction centre. We have identified a phylogenetically distinct D1 group that is intermediate between previously identified G3-D1 and G4-D1 proteins (Cardona et al. Mol Biol Evol 32:1310–1328, 2015). This new group contained two subgroups: D1INT, which was frequently in the genomes of heterocystous cyanobacteria and D1FR that was part of the far-red light photoacclimation gene cluster of cyanobacteria. In addition, we have identified subgroups within G3, the micro-aerobically expressed D1 protein. There are amino acid changes associated with each of the subgroups that might affect the function of Photosystem II. We show a phylogenetically broad range of cyanobacteria have these D1 types, as well as the genes encoding the G2 protein and chlorophyll f synthase. We suggest identification of additional D1 isoforms and the presence of multiple D1 isoforms in phylogenetically diverse cyanobacteria supports the role of these proteins in conferring a selective advantage under specific conditions.

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Acknowledgements

The authors would like to acknowledge Andy Nilsen for the valuable discussions while creating the phylogenetic trees and Bronwyn Carlisle for helping to finalise the figures for publication. KJS is supported by a University of Otago Division of Sciences PhD Scholarship. Additional funding was provided by a University of Otago research grant to TCS.

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Correspondence to Tina C. Summerfield.

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Sheridan, K.J., Duncan, E.J., Eaton-Rye, J.J. et al. The diversity and distribution of D1 proteins in cyanobacteria. Photosynth Res 145, 111–128 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11120-020-00762-7

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11120-020-00762-7

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