The endosperm seed protein Solin: biochemical characterization, induction by ABA and species-specific subunits

Comparison of endosperm storage protein sub units from single seeds of 19 Solanum species was done by isoelectric focusing. Species-specific profiles of the subunits were evident and species relationships within a taxonomic series could be delineated. The identification of both intraspecific and interspecific hybrid seed may be possible from Solin IEF subunit profiles. The glutelin nature of the protein was unusual for a dicotyledon genus. We named this major endosperm protein complex "Solin". Solin was found in developing seeds with embryos at the heart stage, 16 to 18 days after pollination. Seeds excised at the globular stage responded to the addition of ABA and synthesized Solin. This is the first report of the induction of seed protein in endosperm cells of Solanum.