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Sequencing, expression pattern and RFLP mapping of a senescence-enhanced cDNA from Zea mays with high homology to oryzain γ and aleurain

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Abstract

Sequence analysis of a 1.4 kb clone from a cDNA library of senescing Zea mays leaves reveals an open reading frame for a 360 amino acid protein. Both the DNA and deduced amino acid sequences are highly homologous to the cysteine proteinases oryzain γ and aleurain. Northern analysis demonstrates that the corresponding RNA level increases during natural leaf senescence, seedling germination and in chilling of tolerant maize lines, but decreases in a sensitive line. The mRNA level also decreases in regreening leaves, in dark-induced senescence and in nutrient or water stress. Southern and RFLP analysis provide evidence that the gene has two copies, on chromosomes 2 and 7.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Cell Biology Department, Institute for Grassland and Environmental Research, Plas Gogerddan, Aberystwyth, Ceredigion, SY23 3EB, Wales, UK

    Catherine M. Griffiths, Sally E. Hosken & Howard Thomas

  2. Zeneca Seeds, Jealott's Hill Research Station, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG42 6ET, UK

    Duncan Oliver & Jan Chojecki

Authors
  1. Catherine M. Griffiths
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  2. Sally E. Hosken
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  3. Duncan Oliver
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  4. Jan Chojecki
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  5. Howard Thomas
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Griffiths, C.M., Hosken, S.E., Oliver, D. et al. Sequencing, expression pattern and RFLP mapping of a senescence-enhanced cDNA from Zea mays with high homology to oryzain γ and aleurain. Plant Mol Biol 34, 815–821 (1997). https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1005896713830

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