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Prosomes (proteasomes) of higher plants
M Schliephacke1, A Kremp, H P Schmid
1Biologisches Institut der Universität, Stuttgart/Bundesrepublik Deutschland.
European Journal of Cell Biology
|June 1, 1991
Summary
Plant prosomes, isolated from tobacco, potato, and mung bean, are ring-shaped particles structurally and functionally similar to animal prosomes. These protein complexes exhibit conserved characteristics across plant species.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Plant Science
Background:
- Prosomes are proteasome-like particles found in eukaryotic cells.
- Previous research has primarily focused on animal prosomes, with limited information on plant counterparts.
Purpose of the Study:
- To isolate and characterize prosomes from various plant species.
- To investigate the structural and functional similarities between plant and animal prosomes.
Main Methods:
- Isolation of prosomes using sucrose gradient centrifugation and Fast Protein Liquid Chromatography (FPLC).
- Characterization via analytical ultracentrifugation, gel filtration, and 2D gel electrophoresis.
- Immunological cross-reactivity studies using Western blotting and lectin blotting.
Main Results:
- Plant prosomes are ring- or cylinder-shaped particles (12-14 nm diameter, 16-18 nm length) with a sedimentation coefficient of ~23S and a buoyant density of 1.23 g/cm³.
- Composed of 12-15 proteins (24-35 kDa) with similar isoelectric points (pH 5-7) across species.
- Demonstrated cross-reactivity with antisera against animal prosomes, indicating structural homology. Glycosylation and associated small RNA were also identified.
Conclusions:
- Plant prosomes share significant structural and functional homology with prosomes from other eukaryotic organisms.
- The findings contribute to a broader understanding of prosome function across different kingdoms of life.