Localisation and expression of arabinogalactan-proteins in the ovaries of Nicotiana alata Link and Otto
Gane, A.M.; Clarke, A.E.; Bacic, A.
Sexual Plant Reproduction 8(5): 278-282
1995
ISSN/ISBN: 1432-2145 DOI: 10.1007/bf00229384
Accession: 002649252
The transmitting-tissue cells of the style of flowering plants secrete a complex extracellular matrix through which pollen tubes grow to the ovary to effect fertilization. This matrix is particularly rich in a class of proteoglycans, the arabinogalactan-proteins (AGPs). AGPs from the ovary of Nicotiana alata were found to be developmentally regulated, as the different charge classes of AGPs altered during floral development. The AGPs from the mature ovary had charge characteristics that were distinct from those previously reported for the stigma and style. However, the concentration of AGP (0.6 mu-g/ml fresh weight) in the ovary did not change during development, or in response to either compatible or incompatible pollination. The AGPs of the ovary are mainly associated with the epidermis of the placenta.