Maternal environment alters dead pericarp biochemical properties of the desert annual plant Anastatica hierochuntica L.

ABSTRACT: The dead organs enclosing embryos (DOEEs) emerge as central components of the dispersal unit (DU) capable for long-term storage of active proteins and other substances that affect seed performance and fate. We studied the effect of maternal environment (salt and salt+heat) on progeny DU (dry indehiscent fruit) focusing on pericarp properties of Anastatica hierochuntica. Stressed plants displayed increased seed abortion and low level and rate of germination. Hydrated pericarps released antimicrobial factors and allelopathic substances that inhibit germination of heterologous species. Proteome analysis of dead pericarps revealed hundreds of proteins, among them nucleases, chitinases and proteins involved in reactive oxygen species detoxification and cell wall modification. Salt treatment alt

SUBMITTER: Khadka J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7394380 | biostudies-literature | 2020

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature