Encodes a putative E3 ubiquitin ligase that is involved in cuticular wax biosynthesis and regulates 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA reductase (HMGR) activity. HMGR catalyzes the major rate-limiting step of the mevalonic acid (MVA) pathway from which sterols and other isoprenoids are synthesized. Lines carrying a recessive mutation in this locus have reduced chain-length distribution, weakly glaucous stem surface, and has reduced fertility in early flowers, non-spreading floret, downward cupped leaves, leaf waxes nearly pure C24 and C26 acid.
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