Isolation and localization by histoimmunology of isoperoxidases specific for male flowers of the dioecious species Mercurialis annua L.

Abstract

Specific anodic isoperoxidases of male flowers of the dioecious plant Mercurialis annua were extracted, partially purified, and injected into rabbits. The serum against these specific peroxidases was used after absorption to localize these male isoenzymes during flower development by means of histoimmunology. (Indirect immunoperoxidase method). The peroxidases were characteristic of microsporogenesis and tapetum differentiation. Their synthesis started at an early stage of male organogenesis. They were not observed in other sites of peroxidase activity of male flowers (tunica, endothecium, filament, vascular anatomy) or in female flowers (embryo sac or nucellus). I propose that these isoenzymes constitute an early and specific marker of male organogenesis in higher plants.