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Subcellular Localizations of Two Dolichos biflorus Lectins
M E Etzler1, S Macmillan, S Scates
1Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of California, Davis, California 95616.
Plant Physiology
|December 1, 1984
Summary
Dolichos biflorus lectins show distinct subcellular localizations. Seed lectins are in protein bodies and starch granules, while stem/leaf lectins associate with cell walls, suggesting varied tissue functions.
Area of Science:
- Plant biology
- Molecular biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Dolichos biflorus lectins are proteins with known structural similarities.
- Lectins play diverse roles in plant physiology.
- Understanding lectin localization is key to elucidating their functions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the subcellular localization of Dolichos biflorus seed lectin.
- To investigate the localization of the structurally related lectin (cross-reactive material [CRM]) in stems and leaves.
- To compare the distribution of these two lectins within the plant.
Main Methods:
- Immunofluorescence microscopy
- Immunocytochemistry
- Cell fractionation (nonaqueous and standard)
- Enzymatic and chemical extraction
Main Results:
- Seed lectin predominantly localizes to protein bodies and starch granules in cotyledons.
- Stem and leaf lectin (CRM) is primarily associated with cell walls, likely through noncovalent interactions.
- CRM can be released from cell walls using cellulase, pectinase, or salt solutions.
Conclusions:
- Dolichos biflorus lectins exhibit distinct subcellular distributions in different plant tissues.
- These differing localizations suggest specialized functions for lectins in seeds versus vegetative tissues.
- Plant lectins may have evolved tissue-specific roles.
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