Analysis of the expression of putative heat-stress related genes in relation to thermotolerance of cork oak

• Type: Article in International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2014

Authors

Correia, B (Author) Other; Luis Rodriguez, JL (Author) Other; Valledor, L (Author) Other; Almeida, T (Author) Other; Santos, C (Author) Other; Jesus Canal, MJ (Author) Other; Pinto, G (Author) Other

Journal

Title: Journal of Plant Physiology

Vol. 171

Pages: 399-406

ISSN: 0176-1617

Publisher: Elsevier

Indexing

ISI Web of Knowledge - 12 Citations

Scopus - 12 Citations

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-009-8Q0

DOI: 10.1016/j.jplph.2013.12.004

Abstract (EN): Cork oak (Quercus suber L.) is a research priority in the Mediterranean area and because of cork oaks' distribution these stands are experiencing daily stress. Based on projections of intensifying climate change and considering the key role of exploring the recovery abilities, cork oak seedlings were subjected to a cumulative temperature increase from 25 degrees C to 55 degrees C and subsequent recovery. CO2 assimilation rate, chlorophyll fluorescence, anthocyanins, proline and lipid peroxidation were used to evaluate plant performance, while the relative abundance of seven genes encoding for proteins of cork oak with a putative role in thermal/stress regulation (POX1, POX2, HSP10.4, HSP17a.22, CHS, MTL and RBC) was analyzed by qPCR (quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction). A temperature change to 35 degrees C showed abundance alterations in the tested genes; at 45 degrees C, the molecular changes were associated with an antioxidant response, possibly modulated by anthocyanins. At 55 degrees C, HSP17a.22, MTL and proline accumulation were evident. After recovery, physiological balance was restored, whereas POX1, HSP10.4 and MTL abundances were suggested to be involved in increased thermotolerance. The data presented here are expected to pinpoint some pathways changes occurring during such stress and further recovery in this particular Mediterranean species.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

No. of pages: 8