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Updated: Jun 19, 2026
10:24
A Method for Characterizing Embryogenesis in Arabidopsis
Published on: August 4, 2017
Alternative oxidase involvement in Daucus carota somatic embryogenesis
António Miguel Frederico1, Maria Doroteia Campos, Hélia Guerra Cardoso
1EU Marie Curie Chair, ICAAM, University of Evora, Portugal.
Physiologia Plantarum
|October 30, 2009
Summary
Plant alternative oxidase (AOX) is crucial for plant cell reprogramming and stress acclimation. Studies show AOX supports metabolic reorganization, enabling de novo cell differentiation during carrot somatic embryogenesis.
Area of Science:
- Plant Physiology
- Molecular Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Plant alternative oxidase (AOX) is a mitochondrial enzyme in alternative respiration.
- Its role in plant cell acclimation to stress and cell fate changes requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the involvement of AOX in cell reprogramming during Daucus carota somatic embryogenesis.
- To understand AOX gene expression patterns and the impact of AOX inhibition on cell differentiation.
Main Methods:
- Quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) to analyze DcAOX1a and DcAOX2a gene expression.
- Inhibitor studies using salicylhydroxamic acid (SHAM) to block AOX activity.
Main Results:
- DcAOX1a was generally down-regulated, while DcAOX2a was up-regulated during somatic embryogenesis initiation.
- Both genes were down-regulated during globular embryo development.
- AOX inhibition by SHAM impaired embryogenic cell development and growth rate, an effect that was reversible and concentration-dependent.
Conclusions:
- AOX activity supports metabolic reorganization essential for cell reprogramming.
- AOX plays a vital role in enabling de novo cell differentiation and restructuring during plant development.
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