The maize tha4 gene functions in sec-independent protein transport in chloroplasts and is related to hcf106, tatA, and tatB.

ABSTRACT: Proteins are translocated across the chloroplast thylakoid membrane by a variety of mechanisms. Some proteins engage a translocation machinery that is derived from the bacterial Sec export system and require an interaction with a chloroplast-localized SecA homologue. Other proteins engage a machinery that is SecA-independent, but requires a transmembrane pH gradient. Recently, a counterpart to this Delta pH mechanism was discovered in bacteria. Genetic studies revealed that one maize protein involved in this mechanism, HCF106, is related in both structure and function to the bacterial tatA and tatB gene products. We describe here the mutant phenotype and molecular cloning of a second maize gene that functions in the Delta pH mechanism. This gene, thylakoid assembly 4 (tha4), is required sp

SUBMITTER: Walker MB 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2174219 | biostudies-literature | 1999 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature