Changes in legumin messenger RNAs throughout seed development in Pisum sativum L.

The patterns of accumulation of three classes of legumin mRNA from Pisum sativum have been followed through seed development by cell-free translation and hybridization to complementary DNAs. Maximum amounts of mRNA were found at 19 days after flowering (DAF) for two classes and at 24 DAF for the third class. The proportions of the three classes varied through development: the RNA species which was 40% of the total legumin mRNA at 14 DAF represented 15-20% of the total at 25-27 DAF, whereas a second mRNA species represented approx. 30% and 70% at the same stages, respectively. Based on these results, some deductions about the possible contribution of individual genes within classes are made.