Heterologous expression of AtPAP2 in transgenic potato influences carbon metabolism and tuber development. Issue 20 (27th August 2014) - Zhang, Youjun
Abstract : Changes in carbon flow and sink/source activities can affect floral, architectural, and reproductive traits of plants. In potato, overexpression (OE) of the purple acid phosphatase 2 of Arabidopsis ( AtPAP2 ) resulted in earlier flowering, faster growth rate, increased tubers and tuber starch content, and higher photosynthesis rate. There was a significant change in sucrose, glucose and fructose levels in leaves, phloem and sink biomass of the OE lines, consistent with an increased expression of sucrose transporter 1 (StSUT1). Furthermore, the expression levels and enzyme activity of sucrose‐phosphate synthase (SPS) were also significantly increased in the OE lines. These findings strongly suggest that higher carbon supply from the source and improved sink strength can improve potato tuber yield. Abstract : Overexpression of AtPAP2 can strengthen the source capacity and sink strength of potatoes. Overexpression of AtPAP2 resulted in higher photosynthesis rate, faster growth, higher tubers and tuber starch content. AtPAP2 could indirectly regulate the expression of SPS and sucrose transporters.