University Links: Home Page | Site Map
Covenant University Repository

Expression of an expansin carbohydrate-binding module affects xylem and phloem formation

Obembe, Olawole O. (2007) Expression of an expansin carbohydrate-binding module affects xylem and phloem formation. African Journal of Biotechnology , 6 (14). pp. 1608-1616. ISSN ISSN 1684–5315

[img]
Preview
PDF - Published Version
Download (743Kb) | Preview

Abstract

Expansins are believed to be involved in disrupting the non-covalent adhesion of cellulose to matrix polysaccharides, thereby promoting wall creep. We have targeted a putative potato expansin (EXPA) carbohydrate-binding module (CBM) to the cell walls of tobacco plants. Histological examinations and electron microscopy indicated that 30% of the xylem cells of the transgenic stems with high expression of the expansin CBM are wider (radial surface area) than those of the controls. Similarly, 37% of the xylem cells of the stems of the high expressers have thinner cell walls than those of the controls. There were no such phenotypes in the low and none expressers, as well as in the control plants. The transgenic tobacco plants expressing the potato expansin CBM did not exhibit marked change in plant morphology. Analysis of cellulose content in the stem cell walls was similar between the high expresser of the transgene and the control plants. Nonetheless, our results taken together demonstrate that expansin CBM alone can bring about changes in the plant cell walls.

Item Type: Article
Subjects: Q Science > QK Botany
Divisions: Faculty of Medicine, Health and Life Sciences > School of Biological Sciences
Depositing User: Dr. Olawole O. Obembe
Date Deposited: 30 Jun 2011 23:17
Last Modified: 13 Dec 2011 21:13
URI: http://eprints.covenantuniversity.edu.ng/id/eprint/351

Actions (login required)

View Item View Item