Abstract
Bet v 1 proteins, a group of isoforms that constitute the major pollen allergen of the white birch (Betula verrucosa), are encoded by a complex multigene family which also includes a subset of genes transcriptionally activated in cell suspension cultures in the presence of microbial pathogens. We have investigated the temporal and spatial expression patterns ofBet v 1 genes during development of male birch inflorescences. Western and Northern analysis indicated that the expression of Bet v 1 isoallergens is regulated at the transcriptional level and activated only during the late phases of anther maturation, so that high levels of these proteins accumulate in mature pollen. In situ hybridization experiments, carried out with sections of male inflorescences isolated at defined developmental stages, showed thatBet v 1 genes are specifically expressed in late bicellular and mature pollen, but no transcripts were detected in sporophytic anther tissues of any developmental stage. These data suggest a possible role of Bet v 1 proteins during pollen germination on the stigma, protecting the female reproductive tissues from infection by pathogens.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.