Biology Reference
In-Depth Information
Chapter 26
Seed Proteomics
Ján A. Miernyk
Abstract
Rather than providing a single specifi c protocol, the inclusive area of seed proteomics is reviewed; methods
are described and compared and primary literature citations are provided. The limitations and challenges
of proteomics as an approach to study seed biology are emphasized. The proteomic analysis of seeds
encounters some specifi c problems that do not impinge on analyses of other plant cells, tissues, or organs.
There are anatomic considerations. Seeds comprise the seed coat, the storage organ(s), and the embryonic
axis. Are these to be studied individually or as a composite? The physiological status of the seeds must be
considered; developing, mature, or germinating? If mature, are they quiescent or dormant? If mature and
quiescent, then orthodox or recalcitrant? The genetic uniformity of the population of seeds being com-
pared must be considered. Finally, seeds are protein-rich and the extreme abundance of the storage pro-
teins results in a study-subject with a dynamic range that spans several orders of magnitude. This represents
a problem that must be dealt with if the study involves analysis of proteins that are of “normal” to low
abundance. Several different methods of prefractionation are described and the results compared.
Key words
Seed proteomic, Seeds, Seed storage proteins
Abbreviations
DIGE Difference in gel electrophoresis
LC Liquid chromatography
MS Mass spectrometry
PAGE Polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis
SSP
Seed storage proteins
1
Seeds
The formation of an embryonic plant, the product of the ripened
ovule, completes the reproductive cycle of seed plants. In angio-
sperm plants the seeds are fruit-enclosed while in gymnosperms
“
Seeds of every generation between our hands. And the promise to teach you the little I have learned so far
”—
Brooke Fraser.
