Expression of Storage Protein in Somatic Embryos of Plants. Phase 2, Final Report

摘要

The primary objective of the project is to improve plant propagation occurring via somatic embryogenesis. To accomplish this objective, the accumulation and depletion of seed specific storage proteins was studied throughout seed development in alfalfa and lettuce. Characterization of these proteins during zygotic embryogeny made possible their use as markers for estimating the developmental status of somatic embryos regenerated from cell cultures of these crops. The seed storage proteins were extracted in phosphate buffer by manipulating NaCl concentration and pH. Protein extracts were characterized by sucrose gradient sedimentation and SDS-PAGE. Anti-11S was used to quantify protein in both zygotic and somatic embryos of alfalfa, from anthesis or initiation until post-germination. In lettuce, anti-14.5S was used to quantify protein in zygotic embryos over a developmental timetable and to confirm the presence of seed specific protein in lettuce somatic embryos.