A mutational approach to the study of seed development in maize

The maize seed comprises two major compartments, the embryo and the endosperm, both originating from the double fertilization event. The embryogenetic process allows the formation of a well-differentiated embryonic axis, surrounded by a single massive cotyledon, the scutellum. The mature endosperm c...

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Bibliographische Detailangaben
Veröffentlicht in:Journal of experimental botany. - 1985. - 58(2007), 5 vom: 23., Seite 1197-205
1. Verfasser: Dolfini, Silvana (VerfasserIn)
Weitere Verfasser: Consonni, Gabriella, Viotti, Corrado, Dal Prà, Mauro, Saltini, Giuliana, Giulini, Anna, Pilu, Roberto, Malgioglio, Antonino, Gavazzi, Giuseppe
Format: Aufsatz
Sprache:English
Veröffentlicht: 2007
Zugriff auf das übergeordnete Werk:Journal of experimental botany
Schlagworte:Journal Article Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Plant Proteins
Beschreibung
Zusammenfassung:The maize seed comprises two major compartments, the embryo and the endosperm, both originating from the double fertilization event. The embryogenetic process allows the formation of a well-differentiated embryonic axis, surrounded by a single massive cotyledon, the scutellum. The mature endosperm constitutes the bulk of the seed and comprises specific regions containing reserve proteins, complex carbohydrates, and oils. To gain more insight into molecular events that underlie seed development, three monogenic mutants were characterized, referred to as emp (empty pericarp) on the basis of their extreme endosperm reduction, first recognizable at about 12 d after pollination. Their histological analysis reveals a partial development of the endosperm domains as well as loss of adhesion between pedicel tissues and the basal transfer layer. In the endosperm, programmed cell death (PCD) is delayed. The embryo appears retarded in its growth, but not impaired in its morphogenesis. The mutants can be rescued by culturing immature embryos, even though the seedlings appear retarded in their growth. The analysis of seeds with discordant embryo-endosperm phenotype (mutant embryo, normal endosperm and vice-versa), obtained using B-A translocations, suggests that emp expression in the embryo is necessary, but not sufficient, for proper seed development. In all three mutants the picture emerging is one of a general delay in processes related to growth, as a result of a mutation affecting endosperm development as a primary event
Beschreibung:Date Completed 11.07.2007
Date Revised 19.11.2015
published: Print-Electronic
Citation Status MEDLINE
ISSN:1460-2431