VAR1 contains a conserved motif for ATPase and a metalloprotease characteristic to FtsH proteins, and is targeted into chloroplasts. A VAR1-fusion protein synthesized in vitro exhibited ATPase activity and partial metalloprotease activity. This protein is located to the thylakoid membrane and forms a complex with VAR2. FtsH1 (VAR1) and FtsH5 are interchangeable in thylakoid membranes. Phosphorylation of this protein is dependent on calcium. The mRNA is cell-to-cell mobile.
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