Molecular Cloning and Characterization of SQUAMOSA-Promoter Binding Protein-Like Gene FvSPL10 from Woodland Strawberry (Fragaria vesca)

SQUAMOSA-promoter binding protein-like (SPL) proteins are plant-specific transcript factors that play essential roles in plant growth and development. Although many SPL genes have been well characterized in model plants like Arabidopsis, rice and tomato, the functions of SPLs in strawberry are still largely elusive. In the present study, we cloned and characterized FvSPL10, the ortholog of AtSPL9, from woodland strawberry. Subcellular localization shows FvSPL10 localizes in the cell nucleus. The luciferase system assay indicates FvSPL10 is a transcriptional activator, and both in vitro and in vivo assays indicate FvSPL10 could bind to the promoter of FvAP1 and activate its expression. Ectopic expression of FvSPL10 in Arabidopsis promotes early flowering and increases organs size. These results demonstrate the multiple regulatory roles of FvSPL10 in plant growth and development and lay a foundation for investigating the biological functions of FvSPL10 in strawberry.