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Limited correlation between expansin gene expression and elongation growth rate
D Caderas1, M Muster, H Vogler
1Institute of Plant Physiology, University of Berne, Altenbergrain 21, CH-3013 Berne, Switzerland.
Plant Physiology
|August 12, 2000
Summary
Tomato expansin genes, LeExp2 and LeExp18, are linked to cell elongation. While LeExp2 expression correlates with growth, both genes show complex regulation, suggesting expansin works with other factors to control plant growth.
Area of Science:
- Plant Biology
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Expansins are cell wall proteins that enhance cell wall extensibility.
- They are hypothesized to play a crucial role in plant cell elongation growth.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role and regulation of two tomato expansin genes, LeExp2 and LeExp18, in relation to elongation growth.
- To understand the correlation between expansin gene expression and plant growth rates.
Main Methods:
- Studied the expression patterns of LeExp2 and LeExp18 in different tomato tissues and growth conditions.
- Utilized exogenous hormone application (auxin) to assess gene regulation.
- Analyzed transcript accumulation and expansin protein levels in relation to cell wall extension activities.
Main Results:
- LeExp2 showed strong expression in actively elongating tissues, particularly hypocotyls and stems during gravitropism.
- LeExp18 expression did not consistently correlate with elongation growth.
- Auxin significantly stimulated LeExp2 mRNA levels and moderately stimulated LeExp18 mRNA.
- Contrary to expectations, higher transcript levels for both genes were found in slow-growing, light-treated tissue compared to rapidly elongating, dark-treated tissue.
- Expansin protein levels and cell wall extension activities were similar across different growth conditions.
Conclusions:
- A strong correlation exists between expansin gene expression and growth rate, but it is not absolute.
- Elongation growth is likely regulated by expansin acting in conjunction with other limiting factors.
- The complex regulation suggests a nuanced role for expansins in plant development.
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