Isolation and expression of an anther-specific gene from tomato

Abstract

We have isolated and sequenced an anther-specific cDNA clone and a corresponding genomic clone from tomato. The gene (LAT52) encodes an 800-nucleotide-long transcript that is detectable in pollen, anthers and at 20- to 50-fold lower levels in petals. LAT52 mRNA is not detectable in pistils, sepals or non-reproductive tissues. Steady-state levels of LAT52 mRNA are detectable in immature anthers containing pollen at the tetrad stage and increase progressively throughout microsporogenesis until anthesis (pollen shed). The LAT52 gene contains 5' and 3' untranslated regions of 110 and approximately 150 nucleotides, respectively, and a single intron with a highly repetitive sequence. A TATA box motif is located 28 nucleotides upstream of the transcription start site. The gene encodes a putative protein of 18 kDa that is cysteine rich and has an N-terminal hydrophobic region with characteristics similar to eucaryotic secretory signal sequences. LAT52 is a single or low copy gene in tomato and shares homology with sequences in tobacco.