Seed-specific expression patterns and regulation by ABI3 of an unusual late embryogenesis-abundant gene in sunflower

We cloned the genomic sequences that correspond to a previously described group 1 late embryogenesis-abundant (Lea) cDNA from sunflower: Ha ds10. The Ha ds10 G1 gene had structural and gene-expression features that depart from those of other group 1 Lea genes. An intron was present at a conserved position but showed a much larger size (1024 bp). Transcription from the Ha ds10 G1 promoter was strictly seed-specific and it originated from at least two close initiation sites. The mRNAs accumulated from stages of embryogenesis that preceded seed desiccation. Ha ds10 G1 mRNA accumulation was moderately induced, by exogenous abscisic acid treatments, in immature seeds but not induced in seedlings. We observed unprecedented changes in Lea mRNA localization associated with seed desiccation: the homogeneous tissue distribution of Ha ds10 G1 mRNAs, which was characteristic of immature embryos, evolved later in embryogenesis to an asymmetric distribution within the cotyledons, with preferential mRNA accumulation in the cells of the palisade parenchyma and provascular bundles. We also showed that, in sunflower embryos, the Ha ds10 G1 promoter could be transiently activated by the Arabidopsis ABI3 transcription factor. We discuss the significance of these results regarding hypotheses of regulation and function of plant genes from the same family.