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Kubiak-Martens L, Oudemans TFM, Brozio JP, Filipović D, Müller J, Kirleis W. Transformation of cereal grains: Botanical and chemical analysis of food residues encrusted on pottery from the Funnel Beaker settlement of Oldenburg LA 77, northern Germany. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0296986. [PMID: 38241419 PMCID: PMC10798637 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0296986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2024] Open
Abstract
An integrated botanical and chemical approach is used to study surface residues on Funnel Beaker ceramics from the site of Oldenburg LA 77, in northern Germany. Organic residues were discovered adhering to fragments of thick-walled, undecorated ceramic vessels (n = 19) and ceramic discs (n = 2). The surface residues were studied using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), to examine remains of cereals and other plant tissues that survived food preparation and cooking, and using attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) and direct time-resolved mass spectrometry (DTMS), to chemically identify specific food components. The SEM results show a reoccurring presence of cereal grain (emmer and barley) and one case of co-occurrence of emmer and fat-hen seeds. The SEM evidence for the use of sprouted emmer grain and milk-ripe barley from the Oldenburg residues greatly enhances our understanding of Neolithic foodways in northwestern Europe. The ATR-FTIR results showed that roughly a third of the surface residues contain traces of the original foods prepared or processed and DTMS results confirm that most of the residues primarily contain polysaccharides and a minimal amount of plant protein and that they lack lipids. Only one residue presents minor indications for a (partly) animal origin. The ceramic vessels were thus used almost exclusively for the processing or cooking of cereal grains. This study offers an intimate view of the cuisine and cooking practices (and in some cases their seasonal timing) in an early agricultural village located in a marginal farming region on the south coast of the Baltic Sea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucy Kubiak-Martens
- BIAX Biological Archaeology & Environmental Reconstruction, Zaandam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Jan Piet Brozio
- Institute for Prehistoric and Protohistoric Archaeology, Kiel University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Dragana Filipović
- Institute for Prehistoric and Protohistoric Archaeology, Kiel University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Johannes Müller
- Institute for Prehistoric and Protohistoric Archaeology, Kiel University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Wiebke Kirleis
- Institute for Prehistoric and Protohistoric Archaeology, Kiel University, Kiel, Germany
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2
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Francin-Allami M, Bouder A, Geairon A, Alvarado C, Le-Bot L, Daniel S, Shao M, Laudencia-Chingcuanco D, Vogel JP, Guillon F, Bonnin E, Saulnier L, Sibout R. Mixed-Linkage Glucan Is the Main Carbohydrate Source and Starch Is an Alternative Source during Brachypodium Grain Germination. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24076821. [PMID: 37047802 PMCID: PMC10095428 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24076821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Revised: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Seeds of the model grass Brachypodium distachyon are unusual because they contain very little starch and high levels of mixed-linkage glucan (MLG) accumulated in thick cell walls. It was suggested that MLG might supplement starch as a storage carbohydrate and may be mobilised during germination. In this work, we observed massive degradation of MLG during germination in both endosperm and nucellar epidermis. The enzymes responsible for the MLG degradation were identified in germinated grains and characterized using heterologous expression. By using mutants targeting MLG biosynthesis genes, we showed that the expression level of genes coding for MLG and starch-degrading enzymes was modified in the germinated grains of knocked-out cslf6 mutants depleted in MLG but with higher starch content. Our results suggest a substrate-dependent regulation of the storage sugars during germination. These overall results demonstrated the function of MLG as the main carbohydrate source during germination of Brachypodium grain. More astonishingly, cslf6 Brachypodium mutants are able to adapt their metabolism to the lack of MLG by modifying the energy source for germination and the expression of genes dedicated for its use.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Mingqin Shao
- DOE Joint Genome Institute, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
| | | | - John P Vogel
- DOE Joint Genome Institute, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
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3
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Saada S, Solomon CU, Drea S. Programmed Cell Death in Developing Brachypodium distachyon Grain. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22169086. [PMID: 34445790 PMCID: PMC8396479 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22169086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Revised: 08/14/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The normal developmental sequence in a grass grain entails the death of several maternal and filial tissues in a genetically regulated process termed programmed cell death (PCD). The progression and molecular aspects of PCD in developing grains have been reported for domesticated species such as barley, rice, maize and wheat. Here, we report a detailed investigation of PCD in the developing grain of the wild model species Brachypodium distachyon. We detected PCD in developing Brachypodium grains using molecular and histological approaches. We also identified in Brachypodium the orthologs of protease genes known to contribute to grain PCD and surveyed their expression. We found that, similar to cereals, PCD in the Brachypodium nucellus occurs in a centrifugal pattern following anthesis. However, compared to cereals, the rate of post-mortem clearance in the Brachypodium nucellus is slower. However, compared to wheat and barley, mesocarp PCD in Brachypodium proceeds more rapidly in lateral cells. Remarkably, Brachypodium mesocarp PCD is not coordinated with endosperm development. Phylogenetic analysis suggests that barley and wheat possess more vacuolar processing enzymes that drive nucellar PCD compared to Brachypodium and rice. Our expression analysis highlighted putative grain-specific PCD proteases in Brachypodium. Combined with existing knowledge on grain PCD, our study suggests that the rate of nucellar PCD moderates grain size and that the pattern of mesocarp PCD influences grain shape.
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Affiliation(s)
- Safia Saada
- Department of Genetics and Genome Biology, University of Leicester, University Road, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK; (S.S.); (S.D.)
| | - Charles Ugochukwu Solomon
- Department of Genetics and Genome Biology, University of Leicester, University Road, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK; (S.S.); (S.D.)
- Department of Plant Science and Biotechnology, Abia State University, Uturu PMB 2000, Nigeria
- Correspondence:
| | - Sinéad Drea
- Department of Genetics and Genome Biology, University of Leicester, University Road, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK; (S.S.); (S.D.)
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4
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Basunia MA, Nonhebel HM, Backhouse D, McMillan M. Localised expression of OsIAA29 suggests a key role for auxin in regulating development of the dorsal aleurone of early rice grains. PLANTA 2021; 254:40. [PMID: 34324072 DOI: 10.1007/s00425-021-03688-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Non-canonical AUX/IAA protein, OsIAA29, and ZmMPR-1 homologues, OsMRPLs, are part of an auxin-related signalling cascade operating in the dorsal aleurone during early rice grain development. Endosperm of rice and other cereals accumulates high concentrations of the predominant in planta auxin, indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) during early grain development. However, IAA signalling and function during endosperm development are poorly understood. Here, we report that OsYUC12 (an auxin biosynthesis gene) and OsIAA29 (encoding a non-canonical AUX/IAA) are both expressed exclusively in grains, reaching a maximum 5-6 days after pollination. OsYUC12 expression is localised in the aleurone, sub-aleurone and embryo, whereas OsIAA29 expression is restricted to a narrow strip in the dorsal aleurone, directly under the vascular bundle. Although rice has been reported to lack endosperm transfer cells (ETCs), this region of the aleurone is enriched with sugar transporters and is likely to play a key role in apoplastic nutrient transfer, analogous to ETCs in other cereals. OsIAA29 has orthologues only in grass species; expression of which is also specific to early grain development. OsYUC12 and OsIAA29 are temporally co-expressed with two genes (AL1 and OsPR602) previously linked to the development of dorsal aleurone or ETCs. Also up-regulated at the same time is a cluster of MYB-related genes (designated OsMRPLs) homologous to ZmMRP-1, which regulates maize ETC development. Wheat homologues of ZmMRP-1 are similarly expressed in ETCs. Although previous work has suggested that other cereals do not have orthologues of ZmMRP-1, our work suggests OsIAA29 and OsMRPLs and their homologues in other grasses are part of an auxin-regulated, conserved signalling network involved in the differentiation of cells with ETC-like function in developing cereal grains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mafroz A Basunia
- School of Science and Technology, University of New England, Armidale, NSW, 2351, Australia
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Jahangirnagar University, Dhaka, 1342, Bangladesh
| | - Heather M Nonhebel
- School of Science and Technology, University of New England, Armidale, NSW, 2351, Australia.
| | - David Backhouse
- School of Environmental and Rural Science, University of New England, Armidale, NSW, 2351, Australia
| | - Mary McMillan
- School of Science and Technology, University of New England, Armidale, NSW, 2351, Australia
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5
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Radchuk V, Tran V, Hilo A, Muszynska A, Gündel A, Wagner S, Fuchs J, Hensel G, Ortleb S, Munz E, Rolletschek H, Borisjuk L. Grain filling in barley relies on developmentally controlled programmed cell death. Commun Biol 2021; 4:428. [PMID: 33785858 PMCID: PMC8009944 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-021-01953-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2020] [Accepted: 03/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Cereal grains contribute substantially to the human diet. The maternal plant provides the carbohydrate and nitrogen sources deposited in the endosperm, but the basis for their spatial allocation during the grain filling process is obscure. Here, vacuolar processing enzymes have been shown to both mediate programmed cell death (PCD) in the maternal tissues of a barley grain and influence the delivery of assimilate to the endosperm. The proposed centrality of PCD has implications for cereal crop improvement. Radchuk et al. report on the role of vacuolar processing enzymes (VPEs) in mediating programmed cell death (PCD) in the maternal tissues of a barley grain and influencing the delivery of assimilate to the endosperm. This study presents a means of increasing the efficiency of the grain filling process in the major cereal crop species by manipulating the timing of PCD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Volodymyr Radchuk
- Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK) Gatersleben, Seeland, Germany.
| | - Van Tran
- Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK) Gatersleben, Seeland, Germany
| | - Alexander Hilo
- Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK) Gatersleben, Seeland, Germany
| | - Aleksandra Muszynska
- Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK) Gatersleben, Seeland, Germany
| | - Andre Gündel
- Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK) Gatersleben, Seeland, Germany
| | - Steffen Wagner
- Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK) Gatersleben, Seeland, Germany
| | - Joerg Fuchs
- Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK) Gatersleben, Seeland, Germany
| | - Goetz Hensel
- Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK) Gatersleben, Seeland, Germany
| | - Stefan Ortleb
- Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK) Gatersleben, Seeland, Germany
| | - Eberhard Munz
- Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK) Gatersleben, Seeland, Germany
| | - Hardy Rolletschek
- Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK) Gatersleben, Seeland, Germany
| | - Ljudmilla Borisjuk
- Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK) Gatersleben, Seeland, Germany.
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6
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Shoesmith JR, Solomon CU, Yang X, Wilkinson LG, Sheldrick S, van Eijden E, Couwenberg S, Pugh LM, Eskan M, Stephens J, Barakate A, Drea S, Houston K, Tucker MR, McKim SM. APETALA2 functions as a temporal factor together with BLADE-ON-PETIOLE2 and MADS29 to control flower and grain development in barley. Development 2021; 148:dev.194894. [DOI: 10.1242/dev.194894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2020] [Accepted: 01/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT
Cereal grain develops from fertilised florets. Alterations in floret and grain development greatly influence grain yield and quality. Despite this, little is known about the underlying genetic control of these processes, especially in key temperate cereals such as barley and wheat. Using a combination of near-isogenic mutant comparisons, gene editing and genetic analyses, we reveal that HvAPETALA2 (HvAP2) controls floret organ identity, floret boundaries, and maternal tissue differentiation and elimination during grain development. These new roles of HvAP2 correlate with changes in grain size and HvAP2-dependent expression of specific HvMADS-box genes, including the B-sister gene, HvMADS29. Consistent with this, gene editing demonstrates that HvMADS29 shares roles with HvAP2 in maternal tissue differentiation. We also discovered that a gain-of-function HvAP2 allele masks changes in floret organ identity and grain size due to loss of barley LAXATUM.A/BLADE-ON-PETIOLE2 (HvBOP2) gene function. Taken together, we reveal novel pleiotropic roles and regulatory interactions for an AP2-like gene controlling floret and grain development in a temperate cereal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer R. Shoesmith
- Division of Plant Sciences, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee at the James Hutton Institute, Invergowrie DD2 5DA, UK
- Cell and Molecular Sciences, The James Hutton Institute, Invergowrie DD2 5DA, UK
| | - Charles Ugochukwu Solomon
- Department of Genetics and Genome Biology, University of Leicester, University Road, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK
- Department of Plant Science and Biotechnology, Abia State University, PMB 2000, Uturu, Nigeria
| | - Xiujuan Yang
- Waite Research Institute, School of Agriculture, Food and Wine, University of Adelaide, Waite Campus, Urrbrae, SA, 5064, Australia
| | - Laura G. Wilkinson
- Waite Research Institute, School of Agriculture, Food and Wine, University of Adelaide, Waite Campus, Urrbrae, SA, 5064, Australia
- Crop Genetics, John Innes Centre, Norwich Research Park, Norwich NR4 7UH, UK
| | - Scott Sheldrick
- Division of Plant Sciences, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee at the James Hutton Institute, Invergowrie DD2 5DA, UK
| | - Ewan van Eijden
- Division of Plant Sciences, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee at the James Hutton Institute, Invergowrie DD2 5DA, UK
| | - Sanne Couwenberg
- Division of Plant Sciences, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee at the James Hutton Institute, Invergowrie DD2 5DA, UK
| | - Laura M. Pugh
- Division of Plant Sciences, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee at the James Hutton Institute, Invergowrie DD2 5DA, UK
| | - Mhmoud Eskan
- Division of Plant Sciences, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee at the James Hutton Institute, Invergowrie DD2 5DA, UK
| | - Jennifer Stephens
- Cell and Molecular Sciences, The James Hutton Institute, Invergowrie DD2 5DA, UK
| | - Abdellah Barakate
- Cell and Molecular Sciences, The James Hutton Institute, Invergowrie DD2 5DA, UK
| | - Sinéad Drea
- Department of Genetics and Genome Biology, University of Leicester, University Road, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK
| | - Kelly Houston
- Cell and Molecular Sciences, The James Hutton Institute, Invergowrie DD2 5DA, UK
| | - Matthew R. Tucker
- Waite Research Institute, School of Agriculture, Food and Wine, University of Adelaide, Waite Campus, Urrbrae, SA, 5064, Australia
| | - Sarah M. McKim
- Division of Plant Sciences, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee at the James Hutton Institute, Invergowrie DD2 5DA, UK
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7
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Hertig C, Melzer M, Rutten T, Erbe S, Hensel G, Kumlehn J, Weschke W, Weber H, Thiel J. Barley HISTIDINE KINASE 1 (HvHK1) coordinates transfer cell specification in the young endosperm. THE PLANT JOURNAL : FOR CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2020; 103:1869-1884. [PMID: 32530511 DOI: 10.1111/tpj.14875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2020] [Revised: 05/29/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Cereal endosperm represents the most important source of the world's food; nevertheless, the molecular mechanisms underlying cell and tissue differentiation in cereal grains remain poorly understood. Endosperm cellularization commences at the maternal-filial intersection of grains and generates endosperm transfer cells (ETCs), a cell type with a prominent anatomy optimized for efficient nutrient transport. Barley HISTIDINE KINASE1 (HvHK1) was identified as a receptor component with spatially restricted expression in the syncytial endosperm where ETCs emerge. Here, we demonstrate its function in ETC fate acquisition using RNA interference-mediated downregulation of HvHK1. Repression of HvHK1 impairs cell specification in the central ETC region and the development of transfer cell morphology, and consecutively defects differentiation of adjacent endosperm tissues. Coinciding with reduced expression of HvHK1, disturbed cell plate formation and fusion were observed at the initiation of endosperm cellularization, revealing that HvHK1 triggers initial cytokinesis of ETCs. Cell-type-specific RNA sequencing confirmed loss of transfer cell identity, compromised cell wall biogenesis and reduced transport capacities in aberrant cells and elucidated two-component signaling and hormone pathways that are mediated by HvHK1. Gene regulatory network modeling was used to specify the direct targets of HvHK1; this predicted non-canonical auxin signaling elements as the main regulatory links governing cellularization of ETCs, potentially through interaction with type-B response regulators. This work provides clues to previously unknown molecular mechanisms directing ETC specification, a process with fundamental impact on grain yield in cereals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Hertig
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, Leibniz Institute for Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK), Seeland/OT Gatersleben, D-06466, Germany
| | - Michael Melzer
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, Leibniz Institute for Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK), Seeland/OT Gatersleben, D-06466, Germany
| | - Twan Rutten
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, Leibniz Institute for Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK), Seeland/OT Gatersleben, D-06466, Germany
| | - Stephan Erbe
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Leibniz Institute for Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK), Seeland/OT Gatersleben, D-06466, Germany
| | - Götz Hensel
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, Leibniz Institute for Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK), Seeland/OT Gatersleben, D-06466, Germany
| | - Jochen Kumlehn
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, Leibniz Institute for Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK), Seeland/OT Gatersleben, D-06466, Germany
| | - Winfriede Weschke
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Leibniz Institute for Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK), Seeland/OT Gatersleben, D-06466, Germany
| | - Hans Weber
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Leibniz Institute for Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK), Seeland/OT Gatersleben, D-06466, Germany
| | - Johannes Thiel
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Leibniz Institute for Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK), Seeland/OT Gatersleben, D-06466, Germany
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Grimberg Å, Wilkinson M, Snell P, De Vos RP, González-Thuillier I, Tawfike A, Ward JL, Carlsson AS, Shewry P, Hofvander P. Transitions in wheat endosperm metabolism upon transcriptional induction of oil accumulation by oat endosperm WRINKLED1. BMC PLANT BIOLOGY 2020; 20:235. [PMID: 32450804 PMCID: PMC7249431 DOI: 10.1186/s12870-020-02438-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2020] [Accepted: 05/10/2020] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cereal grains, including wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), are major sources of food and feed, with wheat being dominant in temperate zones. These end uses exploit the storage reserves in the starchy endosperm of the grain, with starch being the major storage component in most cereal species. However, oats (Avena sativa L.) differs in that the starchy endosperm stores significant amounts of oil. Understanding the control of carbon allocation between groups of storage compounds, such as starch and oil, is therefore important for understanding the composition and hence end use quality of cereals. WRINKLED1 is a transcription factor known to induce triacylglycerol (TAG; oil) accumulation in several plant storage tissues. RESULTS An oat endosperm homolog of WRI1 (AsWRI1) expressed from the endosperm-specific HMW1Dx5 promoter resulted in drastic changes in carbon allocation in wheat grains, with reduced seed weight and a wrinkled seed phenotype. The starch content of mature grain endosperms of AsWRI1-wheat was reduced compared to controls (from 62 to 22% by dry weight (dw)), TAG was increased by up to nine-fold (from 0.7 to 6.4% oil by dw) and sucrose from 1.5 to 10% by dw. Expression of AsWRI1 in wheat grains also resulted in multiple layers of elongated peripheral aleurone cells. RNA-sequencing, lipid analyses, and pulse-chase experiments using 14C-sucrose indicated that futile cycling of fatty acids could be a limitation for oil accumulation. CONCLUSIONS Our data show that expression of oat endosperm WRI1 in the wheat endosperm results in changes in metabolism which could underpin the application of biotechnology to manipulate grain composition. In particular, the striking effect on starch synthesis in the wheat endosperm indicates that an important indirect role of WRI1 is to divert carbon allocation away from starch biosynthesis in plant storage tissues that accumulate oil.
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Affiliation(s)
- Åsa Grimberg
- Department of Plant Breeding, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, SE-23053, Alnarp, Sweden.
| | - Mark Wilkinson
- Department of Plant Sciences, Rothamsted Research, Harpenden, AL5 2JQ, UK
| | - Per Snell
- Department of Plant Breeding, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, SE-23053, Alnarp, Sweden
- Current address: MariboHilleshög Research AB, Box 302, 261 23, Landskrona, Sweden
| | - Rebecca P De Vos
- Department of Computational and Analytical Sciences, Rothamsted Research, Harpenden, AL5 2JQ, UK
| | | | - Ahmed Tawfike
- Department of Computational and Analytical Sciences, Rothamsted Research, Harpenden, AL5 2JQ, UK
| | - Jane L Ward
- Department of Computational and Analytical Sciences, Rothamsted Research, Harpenden, AL5 2JQ, UK
| | - Anders S Carlsson
- Department of Plant Breeding, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, SE-23053, Alnarp, Sweden
| | - Peter Shewry
- Department of Plant Sciences, Rothamsted Research, Harpenden, AL5 2JQ, UK
| | - Per Hofvander
- Department of Plant Breeding, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, SE-23053, Alnarp, Sweden
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9
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Heiss AG, Azorín MB, Antolín F, Kubiak-Martens L, Marinova E, Arendt EK, Biliaderis CG, Kretschmer H, Lazaridou A, Stika HP, Zarnkow M, Baba M, Bleicher N, Ciałowicz KM, Chłodnicki M, Matuschik I, Schlichtherle H, Valamoti SM. Mashes to Mashes, Crust to Crust. Presenting a novel microstructural marker for malting in the archaeological record. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0231696. [PMID: 32379784 PMCID: PMC7205394 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0231696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2019] [Accepted: 03/31/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The detection of direct archaeological remains of alcoholic beverages and their production is still a challenge to archaeological science, as most of the markers known up to now are either not durable or diagnostic enough to be used as secure proof. The current study addresses this question by experimental work reproducing the malting processes and subsequent charring of the resulting products under laboratory conditions in order to simulate their preservation (by charring) in archaeological contexts and to explore the preservation of microstructural alterations of the cereal grains. The experimentally germinated and charred grains showed clearly degraded (thinned) aleurone cell walls. The histological alterations of the cereal grains were observed and quantified using reflected light and scanning electron microscopy and supported using morphometric and statistical analyses. In order to verify the experimental observations of histological alterations, amorphous charred objects (ACO) containing cereal remains originating from five archaeological sites dating to the 4th millennium BCE were considered: two sites were archaeologically recognisable brewing installations from Predynastic Egypt, while the three broadly contemporary central European lakeshore settlements lack specific contexts for their cereal-based food remains. The aleurone cell wall thinning known from food technological research and observed in our own experimental material was indeed also recorded in the archaeological finds. The Egyptian materials derive from beer production with certainty, supported by ample contextual and artefactual data. The Neolithic lakeshore settlement finds currently represent the oldest traces of malting in central Europe, while a bowl-shaped bread-like object from Hornstaad-Hörnle possibly even points towards early beer production in central Europe. One major further implication of our study is that the cell wall breakdown in the grain's aleurone layer can be used as a general marker for malting processes with relevance to a wide range of charred archaeological finds of cereal products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas G. Heiss
- Department for Bioarchaeology, Austrian Archaeological Institute (ÖAI), Austrian Academy of Sciences (ÖAW), Wien, Vienna, Austria
| | - Marian Berihuete Azorín
- Department of Molecular Botany (190a), Institute of Biology, University of Hohenheim, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Ferran Antolín
- Integrative Prehistory and Archaeological Science (IPAS/IPNA), University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Lucy Kubiak-Martens
- BIAX Consult, Biological Archaeology & Landscape Reconstruction, Zaandam, The Netherlands
| | - Elena Marinova
- Hemmenhofen Office, State Office for Cultural Heritage Baden-Württemberg, Gaienhofen-Hemmenhofen, Germany
- Center for Archaeological Sciences (CAS), KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Elke K. Arendt
- Cereal and Beverage Science Research Group, School of Food & Nutritional Sciences, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Costas G. Biliaderis
- Laboratory of Food Chemistry & Biochemistry, Department of Food Science & Technology, Faculty of Agriculture, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | | | - Athina Lazaridou
- Laboratory of Food Chemistry & Biochemistry, Department of Food Science & Technology, Faculty of Agriculture, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Hans-Peter Stika
- Department of Molecular Botany (190a), Institute of Biology, University of Hohenheim, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Martin Zarnkow
- Research Center Weihenstephan for Brewing and Food Quality, Technical University of Munich (TUM), Freising, Germany
| | - Masahiro Baba
- Waseda Institute for Advanced Study, Waseda University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Niels Bleicher
- Office for Urbanism Zürich, Underwater Archaeology and Laboratory for Dendrochronology, Zürich, Switzerland
| | | | - Marek Chłodnicki
- Department for General Archaeology, Poznań Archaeological Museum, Poznań, Poland
| | - Irenäus Matuschik
- Hemmenhofen Office, State Office for Cultural Heritage Baden-Württemberg, Gaienhofen-Hemmenhofen, Germany
| | - Helmut Schlichtherle
- Hemmenhofen Office, State Office for Cultural Heritage Baden-Württemberg, Gaienhofen-Hemmenhofen, Germany
| | - Soultana Maria Valamoti
- Lira Laboratory, Department of Archaeology, School of History and Archaeology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation (CIRI-AUTH), Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
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10
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Radchuk V, Sharma R, Potokina E, Radchuk R, Weier D, Munz E, Schreiber M, Mascher M, Stein N, Wicker T, Kilian B, Borisjuk L. The highly divergent Jekyll genes, required for sexual reproduction, are lineage specific for the related grass tribes Triticeae and Bromeae. THE PLANT JOURNAL : FOR CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2019; 98:961-974. [PMID: 31021020 PMCID: PMC6851964 DOI: 10.1111/tpj.14363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2019] [Revised: 03/27/2019] [Accepted: 04/04/2019] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Phylogenetically related groups of species contain lineage-specific genes that exhibit no sequence similarity to any genes outside the lineage. We describe here that the Jekyll gene, required for sexual reproduction, exists in two much diverged allelic variants, Jek1 and Jek3. Despite low similarity, the Jek1 and Jek3 proteins share identical signal peptides, conserved cysteine positions and direct repeats. The Jek1/Jek3 sequences are located at the same chromosomal locus and inherited in a monogenic Mendelian fashion. Jek3 has a similar expression as Jek1 and complements the Jek1 function in Jek1-deficient plants. Jek1 and Jek3 allelic variants were almost equally distributed in a collection of 485 wild and domesticated barley accessions. All domesticated barleys harboring the Jek1 allele belong to single haplotype J1-H1 indicating a genetic bottleneck during domestication. Domesticated barleys harboring the Jek3 allele consisted of three haplotypes. Jekyll-like sequences were found only in species of the closely related tribes Bromeae and Triticeae but not in other Poaceae. Non-invasive magnetic resonance imaging revealed intrinsic grain structure in Triticeae and Bromeae, associated with the Jekyll function. The emergence of Jekyll suggests its role in the separation of the Bromeae and Triticeae lineages within the Poaceae and identifies the Jekyll genes as lineage-specific.
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Affiliation(s)
- Volodymyr Radchuk
- Leibniz‐Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK)06466GaterslebenGermany
| | - Rajiv Sharma
- Leibniz‐Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK)06466GaterslebenGermany
- Present address:
Division of Plant SciencesSchool of Life SciencesUniversity of DundeeThe James Hutton InstituteInvergowrie, DundeeDD2 5DAUK
| | - Elena Potokina
- Leibniz‐Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK)06466GaterslebenGermany
- Vavilov Institute of Plant Genetic Resources (VIR)St. Petersburg190000Russian Federation
| | - Ruslana Radchuk
- Leibniz‐Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK)06466GaterslebenGermany
| | - Diana Weier
- Leibniz‐Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK)06466GaterslebenGermany
| | - Eberhard Munz
- Leibniz‐Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK)06466GaterslebenGermany
- Department of Experimental Physics 5University of WürzburgWürzburgGermany
| | | | - Martin Mascher
- Leibniz‐Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK)06466GaterslebenGermany
| | - Nils Stein
- Leibniz‐Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK)06466GaterslebenGermany
| | - Thomas Wicker
- Department of Plant and Microbial BiologyUniversity of ZürichZürichSwitzerland
| | - Benjamin Kilian
- Leibniz‐Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK)06466GaterslebenGermany
- Present address:
Global Crop Diversity Trust53113BonnGermany
| | - Ljudmilla Borisjuk
- Leibniz‐Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK)06466GaterslebenGermany
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11
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Basunia MA, Nonhebel HM. Hormonal regulation of cereal endosperm development with a focus on rice (Oryza sativa). FUNCTIONAL PLANT BIOLOGY : FPB 2019; 46:493-506. [PMID: 30955506 DOI: 10.1071/fp18323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2018] [Accepted: 02/13/2019] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
The endosperm of cereal grain forms the staple diet for most of the world's population, and feeds much of their stock. Grain size and quality are determined largely by events taking place during coenocytic nuclear division, endosperm cellularisation and cell differentiation, and the production of storage molecules. Thus, understanding the complex signalling processes occurring at each of these steps is essential for maintaining and improving our food supply. Here, we critically review evidence for the effects of phytohormones on grain size, as well as hormone homeostasis, signalling and crosstalk. We focus on rice endosperm due to the importance of rice as a food crop and a model grass, as well as its relative neglect in recent reviews; however, data from other cereals are also discussed due to strong evidence for conserved signalling networks operating during grain development. Discussion is restricted to auxin, cytokinin, ethylene, abscisic acid and gibberellin. Our review highlights the need for accurate hormone determinations combined with information on gene expression. We present evidence for separate, localised signalling roles for auxin at different stages of grain development and highlight key research questions for other hormones where much less data are available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mafroz A Basunia
- School of Science and Technology, University of New England, Armidale, NSW 2350, Australia
| | - Heather M Nonhebel
- School of Science and Technology, University of New England, Armidale, NSW 2350, Australia; and Corresponding author.
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12
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Analysis of the expression of transcription factors and other genes associated with aleurone layer development in wheat endosperm. J Cereal Sci 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcs.2018.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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13
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Begcy K, Dresselhaus T. Epigenetic responses to abiotic stresses during reproductive development in cereals. PLANT REPRODUCTION 2018; 31:343-355. [PMID: 29943158 PMCID: PMC6244825 DOI: 10.1007/s00497-018-0343-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2018] [Accepted: 06/22/2018] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
KEY MESSAGE Overview of current understanding of epigenetic alterations after abiotic stresses during reproductive development in cereals. Abiotic stresses, including heat, drought, cold, flooding, and salinity, negatively impact crop productivity. Various stages during reproductive development are especially sensitive to environmental stresses, which may lead to complete sterility and severe yield losses. Plants exhibit diverse responses to ameliorate stress damage. Changes in DNA methylation, histone modification as well as regulation of small RNA and long noncoding RNA pathways have been shown to represent key modulators in plant stress responses. During reproductive development in cereals, various protein complexes controlling histone and DNA methylation have been identified, revealing conserved and novel mechanisms regulating abiotic stress responses in cereals and other plant species. New findings highlight the role of transposable elements during stress periods. Here, we review our current understanding of epigenetic stress responses during male and female gametophyte formation (germline development), fertilization, early seed devolvement, and seed maturation in cereals. An integrative model of epigenetic responses during reproductive development in cereals is proposed, emphasizing the role of DNA methylation and histone modifications during abiotic stresses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Begcy
- Cell Biology and Plant Biochemistry, Biochemie-Zentrum Regensburg, University of Regensburg, 93053, Regensburg, Germany.
| | - Thomas Dresselhaus
- Cell Biology and Plant Biochemistry, Biochemie-Zentrum Regensburg, University of Regensburg, 93053, Regensburg, Germany.
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14
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Aubert MK, Coventry S, Shirley NJ, Betts NS, Würschum T, Burton RA, Tucker MR. Differences in hydrolytic enzyme activity accompany natural variation in mature aleurone morphology in barley (Hordeum vulgare L.). Sci Rep 2018; 8:11025. [PMID: 30038399 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-29068-29064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2018] [Accepted: 07/04/2018] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The aleurone is a critical component of the cereal seed and is located at the periphery of the starchy endosperm. During germination, the aleurone is responsible for releasing hydrolytic enzymes that degrade cell wall polysaccharides and starch granules, which is a key requirement for barley malt production. Inter- and intra-species differences in aleurone layer number have been identified in the cereals but the significance of this variation during seed development and germination remains unclear. In this study, natural variation in mature aleurone features was examined in a panel of 33 Hordeum vulgare (barley) genotypes. Differences were identified in the number of aleurone cell layers, the transverse thickness of the aleurone and the proportion of aleurone relative to starchy endosperm. In addition, variation was identified in the activity of hydrolytic enzymes that are associated with germination. Notably, activity of the free fraction of β-amylase (BMY), but not the bound fraction, was increased at grain maturity in barley varieties possessing more aleurone. Laser capture microdissection (LCM) and transcriptional profiling confirmed that HvBMY1 is the most abundant BMY gene in developing grain and accumulates in the aleurone during early stages of grain fill. The results reveal a link between molecular pathways influencing early aleurone development and increased levels of free β-amylase enzyme, potentially highlighting the aleurone as a repository of free β-amylase at grain maturity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew K Aubert
- School of Agriculture, Food and Wine, Waite Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Glen Osmond, SA, Australia
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence in Plant Cell Walls, the University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Stewart Coventry
- School of Agriculture, Food and Wine, Waite Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Glen Osmond, SA, Australia
| | - Neil J Shirley
- School of Agriculture, Food and Wine, Waite Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Glen Osmond, SA, Australia
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence in Plant Cell Walls, the University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Natalie S Betts
- School of Agriculture, Food and Wine, Waite Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Glen Osmond, SA, Australia
| | - Tobias Würschum
- State Plant Breeding Institute, University of Hohenheim, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Rachel A Burton
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence in Plant Cell Walls, the University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Matthew R Tucker
- School of Agriculture, Food and Wine, Waite Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Glen Osmond, SA, Australia.
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15
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Differences in hydrolytic enzyme activity accompany natural variation in mature aleurone morphology in barley (Hordeum vulgare L.). Sci Rep 2018; 8:11025. [PMID: 30038399 PMCID: PMC6056469 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-29068-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2018] [Accepted: 07/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The aleurone is a critical component of the cereal seed and is located at the periphery of the starchy endosperm. During germination, the aleurone is responsible for releasing hydrolytic enzymes that degrade cell wall polysaccharides and starch granules, which is a key requirement for barley malt production. Inter- and intra-species differences in aleurone layer number have been identified in the cereals but the significance of this variation during seed development and germination remains unclear. In this study, natural variation in mature aleurone features was examined in a panel of 33 Hordeum vulgare (barley) genotypes. Differences were identified in the number of aleurone cell layers, the transverse thickness of the aleurone and the proportion of aleurone relative to starchy endosperm. In addition, variation was identified in the activity of hydrolytic enzymes that are associated with germination. Notably, activity of the free fraction of β-amylase (BMY), but not the bound fraction, was increased at grain maturity in barley varieties possessing more aleurone. Laser capture microdissection (LCM) and transcriptional profiling confirmed that HvBMY1 is the most abundant BMY gene in developing grain and accumulates in the aleurone during early stages of grain fill. The results reveal a link between molecular pathways influencing early aleurone development and increased levels of free β-amylase enzyme, potentially highlighting the aleurone as a repository of free β-amylase at grain maturity.
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16
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Abstract
The starch-rich endosperms of the Poaceae, which includes wild grasses and their domesticated descendents the cereals, have provided humankind and their livestock with the bulk of their daily calories since the dawn of civilization up to the present day. There are currently unprecedented pressures on global food supplies, largely resulting from population growth, loss of agricultural land that is linked to increased urbanization, and climate change. Since cereal yields essentially underpin world food and feed supply, it is critical that we understand the biological factors contributing to crop yields. In particular, it is important to understand the biochemical pathway that is involved in starch biosynthesis, since this pathway is the major yield determinant in the seeds of six out of the top seven crops grown worldwide. This review outlines the critical stages of growth and development of the endosperm tissue in the Poaceae, including discussion of carbon provision to the growing sink tissue. The main body of the review presents a current view of our understanding of storage starch biosynthesis, which occurs inside the amyloplasts of developing endosperms.
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17
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Panato A, Antonini E, Bortolotti F, Ninfali P. The histology of grain caryopses for nutrient location: a comparative study of six cereals. Int J Food Sci Technol 2017. [DOI: 10.1111/ijfs.13390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Panato
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health; University of Verona; Piazzale L.A. Scuro 10 37134 Verona VR Italy
| | - Elena Antonini
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences; University of Urbino; via Saffi 2 61029 Urbino PU Italy
| | - Federica Bortolotti
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health; University of Verona; Piazzale L.A. Scuro 10 37134 Verona VR Italy
| | - Paolino Ninfali
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences; University of Urbino; via Saffi 2 61029 Urbino PU Italy
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18
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Wu X, Liu J, Li D, Liu CM. Rice caryopsis development II: Dynamic changes in the endosperm. JOURNAL OF INTEGRATIVE PLANT BIOLOGY 2016; 58:786-98. [PMID: 0 DOI: 10.1111/jipb.12488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2016] [Accepted: 07/22/2016] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoba Wu
- Key Laboratory of Plant Molecular Physiology; Institute of Botany; Chinese Academy of Sciences; Beijing 100093 China
| | - Jinxin Liu
- Key Laboratory of Plant Molecular Physiology; Institute of Botany; Chinese Academy of Sciences; Beijing 100093 China
| | - Dongqi Li
- Key Laboratory of Plant Molecular Physiology; Institute of Botany; Chinese Academy of Sciences; Beijing 100093 China
| | - Chun-Ming Liu
- Key Laboratory of Plant Molecular Physiology; Institute of Botany; Chinese Academy of Sciences; Beijing 100093 China
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19
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Brachypodium distachyon is a suitable host plant for study of Barley yellow dwarf virus. Virus Genes 2016; 52:299-302. [PMID: 26814813 DOI: 10.1007/s11262-016-1297-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2015] [Accepted: 01/18/2016] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Barley yellow dwarf viruses (BYDVs) belong to the family Luteoviridae and cause disease in cereals. Because of the large and complex genome of cereal plants, it is difficult to study host-virus interactions. In order to establish a model host system for the studies on BYDVs, we examined the susceptibility of a monocot model plant, Brachypodium distachyon, to BYDV-GAV infection. Fourteen days after BYDV-GAV inoculation by aphid transmission, B. distachyon plants (inbred line Bd21-3) showed conspicuous disease symptoms such as leaf reddening, dwarfness and root stunting. Virus accumulation was detected in both shoots and roots using reverse transcription PCR and triple antibody sandwich ELISA. Compared with infected wheat plants, B. distachyon plants developed more severe disease symptoms and accumulated a higher level of BYDV-GAV. Under transmission electron microscope, we observed that virus particles accumulated in companion cells and BYDV-GAV infection was associated with the deformation of chloroplasts in the infected leaves of B. distachyon plants. Our results suggest that B. distachyon is a suitable and promising experimental model plant for the host-BYDV-GAV pathosystem and possibly for other BYDVs.
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20
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Proteome evolution of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) aleurone layer at fifteen stages of grain development. J Proteomics 2015; 123:29-41. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jprot.2015.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2014] [Revised: 02/11/2015] [Accepted: 03/09/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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21
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Tran V, Weier D, Radchuk R, Thiel J, Radchuk V. Caspase-like activities accompany programmed cell death events in developing barley grains. PLoS One 2014; 9:e109426. [PMID: 25286287 PMCID: PMC4186829 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0109426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2014] [Accepted: 08/31/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Programmed cell death is essential part of development and cell homeostasis of any multicellular organism. We have analyzed programmed cell death in developing barley caryopsis at histological, biochemical and molecular level. Caspase-1, -3, -4, -6 and -8-like activities increased with aging of pericarp coinciding with abundance of TUNEL positive nuclei and expression of HvVPE4 and HvPhS2 genes in the tissue. TUNEL-positive nuclei were also detected in nucellus and nucellar projection as well as in embryo surrounding region during early caryopsis development. Quantitative RT-PCR analysis of micro-dissected grain tissues revealed the expression of HvVPE2a, HvVPE2b, HvVPE2d, HvPhS2 and HvPhS3 genes exclusively in the nucellus/nucellar projection. The first increase in cascade of caspase-1, -3, -4, -6 and -8-like activities in the endosperm fraction may be related to programmed cell death in the nucellus and nucellar projection. The second increase of all above caspase-like activities including of caspase-9-like was detected in the maturating endosperm and coincided with expression of HvVPE1 and HvPhS1 genes as well as with degeneration of nuclei in starchy endosperm and transfer cells. The distribution of the TUNEL-positive nuclei, tissues-specific expression of genes encoding proteases with potential caspase activities and cascades of caspase-like activities suggest that each seed tissue follows individual pattern of development and disintegration, which however harmonizes with growth of the other tissues in order to achieve proper caryopsis development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Van Tran
- Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK), Gatersleben, Germany
| | - Diana Weier
- Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK), Gatersleben, Germany
| | - Ruslana Radchuk
- Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK), Gatersleben, Germany
| | - Johannes Thiel
- Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK), Gatersleben, Germany
| | - Volodymyr Radchuk
- Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK), Gatersleben, Germany
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22
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Weier D, Thiel J, Kohl S, Tarkowská D, Strnad M, Schaarschmidt S, Weschke W, Weber H, Hause B. Gibberellin-to-abscisic acid balances govern development and differentiation of the nucellar projection of barley grains. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL BOTANY 2014; 65:5291-304. [PMID: 25024168 PMCID: PMC4157710 DOI: 10.1093/jxb/eru289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2014] [Revised: 05/09/2014] [Accepted: 06/09/2014] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
In cereal grains, the maternal nucellar projection (NP) constitutes the link to the filial organs, forming a transfer path for assimilates and signals towards the endosperm. At transition to the storage phase, the NP of barley (Hordeum vulgare) undergoes dynamic and regulated differentiation forming a characteristic pattern of proliferating, elongating, and disintegrating cells. Immunolocalization revealed that abscisic acid (ABA) is abundant in early non-elongated but not in differentiated NP cells. In the maternally affected shrunken-endosperm mutant seg8, NP cells did not elongate and ABA remained abundant. The amounts of the bioactive forms of gibberellins (GAs) as well as their biosynthetic precursors were strongly and transiently increased in wild-type caryopses during the transition and early storage phases. In seg8, this increase was delayed and less pronounced together with deregulated gene expression of specific ABA and GA biosynthetic genes. We concluded that differentiation of the barley NP is driven by a distinct and specific shift from lower to higher GA:ABA ratios and that the spatial-temporal change of GA:ABA balances is required to form the differentiation gradient, which is a prerequisite for ordered transfer processes through the NP. Deregulated ABA:GA balances in seg8 impair the differentiation of the NP and potentially compromise transfer of signals and assimilates, resulting in aberrant endosperm growth. These results highlight the impact of hormonal balances on the proper release of assimilates from maternal to filial organs and provide new insights into maternal effects on endosperm differentiation and growth of barley grains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Weier
- Leibniz-Institut für Pflanzengenetik und Kulturpflanzenforschung, D-06466 Gatersleben, Germany Leibniz-Institut für Pflanzenbiochemie, D-06120 Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Johannes Thiel
- Leibniz-Institut für Pflanzengenetik und Kulturpflanzenforschung, D-06466 Gatersleben, Germany
| | - Stefan Kohl
- Leibniz-Institut für Pflanzengenetik und Kulturpflanzenforschung, D-06466 Gatersleben, Germany
| | - Danuše Tarkowská
- Laboratory of Growth Regulators, Palacky University and Institute of Experimental Botany, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Slechtitelu 11, CZ-78371, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Miroslav Strnad
- Laboratory of Growth Regulators, Palacky University and Institute of Experimental Botany, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Slechtitelu 11, CZ-78371, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Sara Schaarschmidt
- Leibniz-Institut für Pflanzenbiochemie, D-06120 Halle (Saale), Germany * Present address: Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Faculty of Agriculture and Horticulture, D-14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Winfriede Weschke
- Leibniz-Institut für Pflanzengenetik und Kulturpflanzenforschung, D-06466 Gatersleben, Germany
| | - Hans Weber
- Leibniz-Institut für Pflanzengenetik und Kulturpflanzenforschung, D-06466 Gatersleben, Germany
| | - Bettina Hause
- Leibniz-Institut für Pflanzenbiochemie, D-06120 Halle (Saale), Germany
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23
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González-Calle V, Iglesias-Fernández R, Carbonero P, Barrero-Sicilia C. The BdGAMYB protein from Brachypodium distachyon interacts with BdDOF24 and regulates transcription of the BdCathB gene upon seed germination. PLANTA 2014; 240:539-552. [PMID: 24957701 DOI: 10.1007/s00425-014-2105-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2014] [Accepted: 05/23/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
BdDOF24 interacting with BdGAMYB regulates the BdCathB gene upon germination. During barley seed germination, hydrolytic enzymes (α-amylases, proteases, etc.) synthesized in the aleurone layer in response to gibberellins (GA), catalyse the mobilization of storage reserves accumulated in the endosperm during seed maturation. In Brachypodium distachyon, the BdCathB gene that encodes a Cathepsin B-like thiol-protease, orthologous to the wheat Al21 and barley HvCathB, is highly induced in germinating seeds and its expression is regulated by transcription factors (TFs) encoded by genes BdGamyb and BdDof24, orthologous to the barley HvGamyb and BPBF-HvDof24, respectively. Transcripts of both TF genes increase during germination and treatments with abscisic acid (ABA) or paclobutrazol (PAC, an inhibitor of GA biosynthesis) decrease mRNA expression of BdGamyb but do not affect that of BdDof24. Besides, proteins BdDOF24 and BdGAMYB interact in yeast-2 hybrid systems and in plant nuclei, and in transient expression assays in aleurone layers BdDOF24 is a transcriptional repressor and BdGAMYB is an activator of the BdCathB promoter, as occurs with the putative orthologous in barley BPBF-HvDOF24 and HvGAMYB. However, when both TFs are co-bombarded, BdDOF24 enhances the activation driven by BdGAMYB while BPBF-HvDOF24 strongly decreases the HvGAMYB-mediated activation of the BdCathB promoter. The different results obtained when BdDOF24 and BPBF-HvDOF24 interact with BdGAMYB and HvGAMYB are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginia González-Calle
- Centro de Biotecnología y Genómica de Plantas (UPM-INIA). ETSI Agrónomos, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Campus de Montegancedo, Pozuelo de Alarcón, 28223, Madrid, Spain,
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24
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Kourmpetli S, Drea S. The fruit, the whole fruit, and everything about the fruit. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL BOTANY 2014; 65:4491-503. [PMID: 24723396 DOI: 10.1093/jxb/eru144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Fruits come in an impressive array of shapes, sizes, and consistencies, and also display a huge diversity in biochemical/metabolite profiles, wherein lies their value as rich sources of food, nutrition, and pharmaceuticals. This is in addition to their fundamental function in supporting and dispersing the developing and mature seeds for the next generation. Understanding developmental processes such as fruit development and ripening, particularly at the genetic level, was once largely restricted to model and crop systems for practical and commercial reasons, but with the expansion of developmental genetic and evo-devo tools/analyses we can now investigate and compare aspects of fruit development in species spanning the angiosperms. We can superimpose recent genetic discoveries onto the detailed characterization of fruit development and ripening conducted with primary considerations such as yield and harvesting efficiency in mind, as well as on the detailed description of taxonomically relevant characters. Based on our own experience we focus on two very morphologically distinct and evolutionary distant fruits: the capsule of opium poppy, and the grain or caryopsis of cereals. Both are of massive economic value, but because of very different constituents; alkaloids of varied pharmaceutical value derived from secondary metabolism in opium poppy capsules, and calorific energy fuel derived from primary metabolism in cereal grains. Through comparative analyses in these and other fruit types, interesting patterns of regulatory gene function diversification and conservation are beginning to emerge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Kourmpetli
- Department of Biology, University of Leicester, University Road, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK
| | - Sinéad Drea
- Department of Biology, University of Leicester, University Road, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK
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Zheng Y, Wang Z, Gu Y. Development and function of caryopsis transport tissues in maize, sorghum and wheat. PLANT CELL REPORTS 2014; 33:1023-31. [PMID: 24652624 DOI: 10.1007/s00299-014-1593-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2014] [Accepted: 02/26/2014] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Cereal caryopsis transport tissues are essential channels via which nutrients are transported into the embryo and endosperm. There are differences and similarities between caryopsis transport tissues of maize, sorghum and wheat. Vascular bundle, endosperm transfer cells, endosperm conducting cells and embryo surrounding region are common in maize, sorghum and wheat. Placentochalaza is special in maize and sorghum, while chalaza and nucellar projection transfer cells are special in wheat. There is an obvious apoplastic cavity between maternal and filial tissues in sorghum and wheat caryopses, but there is no obvious apoplastic cavity in maize caryopsis. Based on the latest research, the development and function of the three cereal caryopsis transport tissues are discussed and investigated in this paper.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yankun Zheng
- College of Agriculture, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, Jiangsu, China,
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Lorenz C, Rolletschek H, Sunderhaus S, Braun HP. Brassica napus seed endosperm - metabolism and signaling in a dead end tissue. J Proteomics 2014; 108:382-426. [PMID: 24906024 DOI: 10.1016/j.jprot.2014.05.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2014] [Revised: 05/22/2014] [Accepted: 05/27/2014] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Oilseeds are an important element of human nutrition and of increasing significance for the production of industrial materials. The development of the seeds is based on a coordinated interplay of the embryo and its surrounding tissue, the endosperm. This study aims to give insights into the physiological role of endosperm for seed development in the oilseed crop Brassica napus. Using protein separation by two-dimensional (2D) isoelectric focusing (IEF)/SDS polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE) and protein identification by mass spectrometry three proteome projects were carried out: (i) establishment of an endosperm proteome reference map, (ii) proteomic characterization of endosperm development and (iii) comparison of endosperm and embryo proteomes. The endosperm proteome reference map comprises 930 distinct proteins, including enzymes involved in genetic information processing, carbohydrate metabolism, environmental information processing, energy metabolism, cellular processes and amino acid metabolism. To investigate dynamic changes in protein abundance during seed development, total soluble proteins were extracted from embryo and endosperm fractions at defined time points. Proteins involved in sugar converting and recycling processes, ascorbate metabolism, amino acid biosynthesis and redox balancing were found to be of special importance for seed development in B. napus. Implications for the seed filling process and the function of the endosperm for seed development are discussed. BIOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE The endosperm is of key importance for embryo development during seed formation in plants. We present a broad study for characterizing endosperm proteins in the oilseed plant B. napus. Furthermore, a project on the biochemical interplay between the embryo and the endosperm during seed development is presented. We provide evidence that the endosperm includes a complete set of enzymes necessary for plant primary metabolism. Combination of our results with metabolome data will further improve systems-level understanding of the seed filling process and provide rational strategies for plant bioengineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christin Lorenz
- Institute of Plant Genetics, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Leibniz Universität Hannover, 30419 Hannover, Germany
| | - Hardy Rolletschek
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK), Corrensstr. 3, D-06466 Gatersleben, Germany
| | - Stephanie Sunderhaus
- Institute of Plant Genetics, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Leibniz Universität Hannover, 30419 Hannover, Germany
| | - Hans-Peter Braun
- Institute of Plant Genetics, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Leibniz Universität Hannover, 30419 Hannover, Germany.
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Burton RA, Fincher GB. Evolution and development of cell walls in cereal grains. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2014; 5:456. [PMID: 25309555 PMCID: PMC4161051 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2014.00456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2014] [Accepted: 08/23/2014] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
The composition of cell walls in cereal grains and other grass species differs markedly from walls in seeds of other plants. In the maternal tissues that surround the embryo and endosperm of the grain, walls contain higher levels of cellulose and in many cases are heavily lignified. This may be contrasted with walls of the endosperm, where the amount of cellulose is relatively low, and the walls are generally not lignified. The low cellulose and lignin contents are possible because the walls of the endosperm perform no load-bearing function in the mature grain and indeed the low levels of these relatively intractable wall components are necessary because they allow rapid degradation of the walls following germination of the grain. The major non-cellulosic components of endosperm walls are usually heteroxylans and (1,3;1,4)-β-glucans, with lower levels of xyloglucans, glucomannans, and pectic polysaccharides. Pectic polysaccharides and xyloglucans are the major non-cellulosic wall constituents in most dicot species, in which (1,3;1,4)-β-glucans are usually absent and heteroxylans are found at relatively low levels. Thus, the "core" non-cellulosic wall polysaccharides in grain of the cereals and other grasses are the heteroxylans and, more specifically, arabinoxylans. The (1,3;1,4)-β-glucans appear in the endosperm of some grass species but are essentially absent from others; they may constitute from zero to more than 45% of the cell walls of the endosperm, depending on the species. It is clear that in some cases these (1,3;1,4)-β-glucans function as a major store of metabolizable glucose in the grain. Cereal grains and their constituent cell wall polysaccharides are centrally important as a source of dietary fiber in human societies and breeders have started to select for high levels of non-cellulosic wall polysaccharides in grain. To meet end-user requirements, it is important that we understand cell wall biology in the grain both during development and following germination.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Geoffrey B. Fincher
- *Correspondence: Geoffrey B. Fincher, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence in Plant Cell Walls – School of Agriculture, Food and Wine, University of Adelaide, Waite Campus, Glen Osmond, SA 5064, Australia e-mail:
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Trafford K, Haleux P, Henderson M, Parker M, Shirley NJ, Tucker MR, Fincher GB, Burton RA. Grain development in Brachypodium and other grasses: possible interactions between cell expansion, starch deposition, and cell-wall synthesis. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL BOTANY 2013; 64:5033-5047. [PMID: 24052531 DOI: 10.1093/jxb/ert292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
To explain the low levels of starch, high levels of (1,3;1,4)-β-glucan, and thick cell walls in grains of Brachypodium distachyon L. relative to those in other Pooideae, aspects of grain development were compared between B. distachyon and barley (Hordeum vulgare L.). Cell proliferation, cell expansion, and endoreduplication were reduced in B. distachyon relative to barley and, consistent with these changes, transcriptional downregulation of the cell-cycle genes CDKB1 and cyclin A3 was observed. Similarly, reduced transcription of starch synthase I and starch-branching enzyme I was observed as well as reduced activity of starch synthase and ADP-glucose pyrophosphorylase, which are consistent with the lowered starch content in B. distachyon grains. No change was detected in transcription of the major gene involved in (1,3;1,4)-β-glucan synthesis, cellulose synthase-like F6. These results suggest that, while low starch content results from a reduced capacity for starch synthesis, the unusually thick cell walls in B. distachyon endosperm probably result from continuing (1,3;1,4)-β-glucan deposition in endosperm cells that fail to expand. This raises the possibility that endosperm expansion is linked to starch deposition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kay Trafford
- National Institute of Agricultural Botany, Huntingdon Road, Cambridge CB3 0LE, UK
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Bihmidine S, Hunter CT, Johns CE, Koch KE, Braun DM. Regulation of assimilate import into sink organs: update on molecular drivers of sink strength. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2013; 4:177. [PMID: 23761804 PMCID: PMC3671192 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2013.00177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 139] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2013] [Accepted: 05/17/2013] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Recent developments have altered our view of molecular mechanisms that determine sink strength, defined here as the capacity of non-photosynthetic structures to compete for import of photoassimilates. We review new findings from diverse systems, including stems, seeds, flowers, and fruits. An important advance has been the identification of new transporters and facilitators with major roles in the accumulation and equilibration of sugars at a cellular level. Exactly where each exerts its effect varies among systems. Sugarcane and sweet sorghum stems, for example, both accumulate high levels of sucrose, but may do so via different paths. The distinction is central to strategies for targeted manipulation of sink strength using transporter genes, and shows the importance of system-specific analyses. Another major advance has been the identification of deep hypoxia as a feature of normal grain development. This means that molecular drivers of sink strength in endosperm operate in very low oxygen levels, and under metabolic conditions quite different than previously assumed. Successful enhancement of sink strength has nonetheless been achieved in grains by up-regulating genes for starch biosynthesis. Additionally, our understanding of sink strength is enhanced by awareness of the dual roles played by invertases (INVs), not only in sucrose metabolism, but also in production of the hexose sugar signals that regulate cell cycle and cell division programs. These contributions of INV to cell expansion and division prove to be vital for establishment of young sinks ranging from flowers to fruit. Since INV genes are themselves sugar-responsive "feast genes," they can mediate a feed-forward enhancement of sink strength when assimilates are abundant. Greater overall productivity and yield have thus been attained in key instances, indicating that even broader enhancements may be achievable as we discover the detailed molecular mechanisms that drive sink strength in diverse systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saadia Bihmidine
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of MissouriColumbia, MO, USA
- Interdisciplinary Plant Group, University of MissouriColumbia, MO, USA
- Missouri Maize Center, University of MissouriColumbia, MO, USA
| | - Charles T. Hunter
- Horticultural Sciences Department, University of FloridaGainesville, FL, USA
- Plant Molecular and Cellular Biology Program, University of FloridaGainesville, FL, USA
| | - Christine E. Johns
- Horticultural Sciences Department, University of FloridaGainesville, FL, USA
- Plant Molecular and Cellular Biology Program, University of FloridaGainesville, FL, USA
| | - Karen E. Koch
- Horticultural Sciences Department, University of FloridaGainesville, FL, USA
- Plant Molecular and Cellular Biology Program, University of FloridaGainesville, FL, USA
| | - David M. Braun
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of MissouriColumbia, MO, USA
- Interdisciplinary Plant Group, University of MissouriColumbia, MO, USA
- Missouri Maize Center, University of MissouriColumbia, MO, USA
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