In situ hybridization analysis of protein kinase CK2 expression during plant development

Protein kinase CK2 (EC 2.7.1.37) is a ubiquitous Ser/Thr kinase composed of two subunits, a subunit (catalytic) and a subunit (regulatory). Although CK2 is one of the components of the network that controls the eukaryotic cell cycle, very little is known about the developmental control of its expression, particularly in plants. Using in situ hybridization we have determined the pattern of expression of its two subunits in relation to plant morphogenesis. Our results show a cell-specific mRNA accumulation, equivalent for both subunits, which suggests a co-ordinate regulation during development. The spatial and temporal pattern of expression correlates with the appearance of the meristems, and high levels of transcripts are also present in differentiated tissues with high mitotic activity. These results confirm the transcriptional regulation of CK2 and establish a general correlation with cell proliferation in a developmental context. They also provide suggestive evidence for the requirement of CK2 expression for the initiation and organization of meristem activity.