ARS | Publication request: Nitrate transporter genes in apple and the effect of water deficit on their expression

Submitted to: Proceedings American Society of Horticultural Sciences
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: March 23, 2012
Publication Date: August 1, 2012
Citation: Bassett, C.L., Baldo, A.M., Farrell, R.E. 2012. Nitrate transporter genes in apple and the effect of water deficit on their expression. Proceedings American Society of Horticultural Sciences [abstract]. ASHS National Conference Program. p. 91.

Technical Abstract: Nitrogen transporters are members of a large superfamily, the Major Facilitator Superfamily (MFS). This family is ubiquitous and diverse, and includes proteins that facilitate the transport of a wide range of substrates across the cytoplasmic or intracellular membranes. Among the proteins encoded by this group of genes are those specifically associated with transport of nitrates into the cell. In a recent analysis of genes responding to simulated drought, a High Affinity Nitrate Transporter from apple roots was identified. Bioinformatic tools were then utilized to identify the apple gene family of nitrate transporters and to compare it to Arabidopsis and peach. In addition, we have examined the promoters regulating expression of these genes and determined their expression in apples subjected to a severe simulated drought. Implications for the transport of nitrogen in plants under abiotic stress are presented.