ISSN:
1432-2242
Keywords:
Key words β-amylase-deficient mutant
;
Oryza sativa
;
Germination
;
Direct seedling
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Biology
Notes:
Abstract β-Amylase deficiency in various cultivars of rice was examined at the molecular level. Using an antibody against β-amylase purified from germinating seeds of rice, we were able to demonstrate the expression and organization of the β-amylase gene in normal and deficient cultivars. Although β-amylase is a starch-hydrolyzing enzyme, as is α-amylase, the β-amylase protein/gene is expressed differently from the α-amylase protein/gene; i.e. (1) β-amylase is synthesized only in aleurone cells, (2) the enzyme production in the embryo-less half-seeds is not under hormonal control. We identified some cultivars of rice that are deficient for β-amylase activity. We present new evidence that synthesis is blocked at the level of mRNA synthesis in the deficient cultivars. The usefulness of β-amylase as a crop trait is also discussed.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s001220051036
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