AtGRP2, a cold-induced nucleo-cytoplasmic RNA-binding protein, has a role in flower and seed development

Planta. 2007 May;225(6):1339-51. doi: 10.1007/s00425-006-0444-4. Epub 2006 Nov 23.

Abstract

The glycine-rich protein AtGRP2 is one of the four members of the cold-shock domain (CSD) protein family in Arabidopsis. It is characterized by the presence of a nucleic acid-binding CSD domain, two glycine-rich domains and two CCHC zinc-fingers present in nucleic acid-binding proteins. In an attempt to further understand the role of CSD/GRP proteins in plants, we have proceeded to the functional characterization of the AtGRP2 gene. Here, we demonstrate that AtGRP2 is a nucleo-cytoplasmic protein involved in Arabidopsis development with a possible function in cold-response. Expression analysis revealed that the AtGRP2 gene is active in meristematic tissues, being modulated during flower development. Down-regulation of AtGRP2 gene, using gene-silencing techniques resulted in early flowering, altered stamen number and affected seed development. A possible role of AtGRP2 as an RNA chaperone is discussed.

MeSH terms

  • Arabidopsis / growth & development*
  • Arabidopsis / metabolism*
  • Arabidopsis Proteins / metabolism*
  • Cold Temperature
  • Flowers / growth & development*
  • Flowers / metabolism
  • Gene Expression Regulation, Plant
  • Meristem / metabolism
  • Nucleic Acids / chemistry
  • Nucleic Acids / metabolism
  • Protein Binding
  • Protein Transport
  • RNA-Binding Proteins / metabolism*
  • Seeds / growth & development*
  • Seeds / metabolism

Substances

  • Arabidopsis Proteins
  • GRP2 protein, Arabidopsis
  • Nucleic Acids
  • RNA-Binding Proteins