Study of AtSUS2 localization in seeds reveals a strong association with plastids

Plant Cell Physiol. 2008 Oct;49(10):1621-6. doi: 10.1093/pcp/pcn117. Epub 2008 Aug 12.

Abstract

Sucrose synthase (SUS) is a key enzyme in sucrose metabolism. This enzyme catalyzes the reversible conversion of sucrose and UDP to UDP-glucose and fructose. In the Arabidopsis SUS gene family (six members), SUS2 is strongly and specifically expressed in Arabidopsis seeds during the maturation phase. Using specific antibodies, we have shown that SUS2 is localized in the embryo, endosperm and seed coat with differential patterns. During the maturation phase, the SUS2 protein seems to be mainly co-localized with plastids in the embryo. This novel finding is discussed in relation to the role of this enzyme in storage organs.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Arabidopsis / enzymology*
  • Arabidopsis / genetics
  • Arabidopsis Proteins / chemistry*
  • Arabidopsis Proteins / genetics
  • Gene Expression Regulation, Plant
  • Genes, Plant
  • Glucosyltransferases / chemistry*
  • Glucosyltransferases / genetics
  • Microscopy, Confocal
  • Plastids / enzymology*
  • Plastids / genetics
  • Seeds / enzymology*
  • Seeds / genetics

Substances

  • Arabidopsis Proteins
  • Glucosyltransferases
  • sucrose synthase