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Pectate lyases, cell wall degradation and fruit softening
M Celia Marín-Rodríguez1, John Orchard, Graham B Seymour
1Horticulture Research International, Plant Genetics and Biotechnology Department, Wellesbourne, Warwickshire CV35 9EF, UK.
Journal of Experimental Botany
|September 27, 2002
Summary
Pectate lyases are enzymes found in plants, with potential roles in fruit ripening. Further research is needed to understand their function in plant tissues and fruit development.
Area of Science:
- Plant biochemistry
- Enzymology
Background:
- Pectate lyases are enzymes that degrade pectin, a major component of plant cell walls.
- Microbial pectate lyases have well-characterized structures and functions.
- Information regarding plant pectate lyases is limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the known information about pectate lyases in plants.
- To explore the potential role of pectate lyases in fruit ripening.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of microbial and plant pectate lyases.
- Analysis of gene expression data (ESTs) and transcript presence in various plant tissues.
Main Results:
- Pectate lyase-like genes are found in diverse plant tissues, including seeds, pollen, and fruits.
- Abundant ESTs in tomato and transcripts in other fruits suggest a significant role in ripening.
- Limited data exists on the specific functions of plant pectate lyases.
Conclusions:
- Pectate lyase-like enzymes may play a more substantial role in fruit ripening than previously understood.
- Further investigation into plant pectate lyase function and structure is warranted.