Genetius

The study reveals that a set of REPRODUCTIVE MERISTEM (REM) transcription factors, termed RIMs, are essential for directing RNA‑directed DNA methylation (RdDM) to CLSY3 targets in a sex‑specific manner in Arabidopsis reproductive tissues. Disruption of RIM DNA‑binding domains or their target motifs abolishes RdDM at these loci, demonstrating that genetic cues can guide de novo methylation patterns.

The study identifies four Arabidopsis REM transcription factors (VDD, VAL, REM12, REM13) that bind specific DNA sequences and, together with GDE1, recruit RNA polymerase IV to produce 24‑nt siRNAs that direct DNA methylation at designated loci. Loss of GDE1 causes Pol IV complexes to relocalize to sites bound by REM8, indicating that REM proteins provide sequence‑specific cues for epigenetic patterning.

The study reveals that hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) and the cysteine desulfhydrase DES1 are essential for stomatal immunity, mediating flg22‑ and bacterial‑induced stomatal closure and influencing reactive oxygen species (ROS) dynamics. Loss‑of‑function des1 mutants show altered susceptibility to Pseudomonas syringae and reduced apoplastic and cytosolic H₂O₂ accumulation, while H₂S can induce ROS production independently of RBOHD.