Identification of a Novel Gene Encoding the Specialized Alanine Decarboxylase in Tea (Camellia sinensis) Plants.

ABSTRACT: Theanine, a unique amino acid in Camellia sinensis, accounts for more than 50% of total free amino acids in tea and has a significant contribution to the quality of green tea. Previous research indicated that theanine is synthesized from glutamic acid (Glu) and ethylamine mainly in roots, and that theanine accumulation depends on the availability of ethylamine which is derived from alanine (Ala) decarboxylation catalyzed by alanine decarboxylase (AlaDC). However, the specific gene encoding AlaDC protein remains to be discovered in tea plants or in other species. To explore the gene of AlaDC in tea plants, the differences in theanine contents and gene expressions between pretreatment and posttreatment of long-time nitrogen starvation were analyzed in young roots of two tea cultivars.

SUBMITTER: Bai P 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6384637 | biostudies-literature | 2019 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature