Pistil receptivity, pollen tube growth and gene expression during early fruit development in sweet pepper (Capsicum annuum)

Pistil receptivity, pollen tube growth and gene expression during early fruit development in sweet pepper (Capsicum annuum)

2006

REP.PP-0638

Glasshouse and laboratory studies were conducted to investigate stigma receptivity, pollen tube growth and identify genes associated with fertilization in sweet pepper (Capsicum annuum var. Golden Bell). Emasculated flowers were pollinated and growth of pollen tubes monitored. Tips of pollen tubes were observed in the ovary and ovules of sweet pepper within 36 and 48 h, respectively. Fertilization in sweet pepper, therefore, takes place two days after pollination. Pollen grains failed to germinate on the stigma of sweet pepper on the third day after anthesis, indicating a stigma receptivity of two days after flower opening. Analysis of cDNA clones corresponding to messages expressed after fertilization revealed a high level of expression of clones 1b06, 1e11, 1e12; 1f10, 2d09 and 2d05. Database comparisons showed that these cDNAs correspond to mRNA of genes associated with defense mechanisms, synthesis of cell wall structural protein, cell division and heat tolerance in plants.

v.8(5):576-579, INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURE AND BIOLOGY

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