InterPro domain: IPR006918

This entry represents the COBRA family proteins. In Arabidopsis thaliana, members of the family are all extracellular glycosyl-phosphatidyl inositol-anchored proteins (GPI-linked) [ 1 ]. COBRA is involved in determining the orientation of cell expansion, probably by playing an important role in cellulose deposition. It may act by recruiting cellulose synthesizing complexes to discrete positions on the cell surface. Some members of this family are annotated as phytochelatin synthase, but these annotations are incorrect [ 2 ].

1. COBRA, an Arabidopsis extracellular glycosyl-phosphatidyl inositol-anchored protein, specifically controls highly anisotropic expansion through its involvement in cellulose microfibril orientation. Plant Cell 17, 1749-63
2. Weeds, worms, and more. Papain's long-lost cousin, phytochelatin synthase. Plant Physiol. 136, 2463-74