Sequencing, expression pattern and RFLP mapping of a senescence-enhanced cDNA from Zea mays with high homology to oryzain gamma and aleurain.

Sequence analysis of a 1.4 kb clone from a cDNA library of senescing Zea mays leaves reveals an open reading frame for a 360 amino acid protein. Both the DNA and deduced amino acid sequences are highly homologous to the cysteine proteinases oryzain gamma and aleurain. Northern analysis demonstrates that the corresponding RNA level increases during natural leaf senescence, seedling germination and in chilling of tolerant maize lines, but decreases in a sensitive line. The mRNA level also decreases in regreening leaves, in dark-induced senescence and in nutrient or water stress. Southern and RFLP analysis provide evidence that the gene has two copies, on chromosomes 2 and 7.