A transgene encoding a plasma membrane H+-ATPase that confers acid resistance in Arabidopsis thaliana seedlings

Proton pumps (H+-ATPases) are the primary active transport systems in the plasma membrane of higher plant cells. These enzymes are encoded by a large gene family expressed throughout the plant, with specific isoforms directed to various specialized cells. While their involvement in membrane energetics has been suggested by a large body of biochemical and physiological studies, a genetic analysis of their role in plants has not yet been performed. We report here that mutant Arabidopsis thaliana plants containing a phloem-specific transgene encoding a plasma membrane H+-ATPase with an altered carboxy terminus show improved growth at low pH during seedling development. These observations provide the first genetic evidence for a role of the plasma membrane H+-ATPase in cytoplasmic pH homeostasis in plants.