Identification of integrin-like in guard cells ofVicia faba

Abstract

We addressed the existence and localization of integrin-like in guard cells ofVicia faba by using a probe of polyclonal antibody against the human integrin (αvβ3/β5). Western blot results showed that three integrins-like of about 47.3, 43.7 and 41.1 ku were detected from the preparation of membrane fragments of purified guard cell protoplasts. Further research with immunofluorescent scanning microscopy indicated that those integrins-like were localized on plasma membrane of guard cells, most nearing the dorsal wall, which is consistent with the reception of signals from epidermal cells to guard cells. Thus our results indicate, for the first time, that integrins-like are present at guard cell plasma membrane ofVicia faba.