Overexpression of EcGSH1 induces glutathione production and alters somatic embryogenesis and plant development in Hevea brasiliensis

Oxidative stress occurring during in-vitro culture is detrimental for clonal propagation by somatic embryogenesis in particular in Hevea brasiliensis. In previous work, overexpression of the gene encoding the cytosolic reactive oxygen species detoxification enzyme HbCuZnSOD led to reduce somatic embryo regeneration in Hevea. In this study, the role of antioxidant was tested by overexpression of the E.coli GSH1 gene involved in glutathione biosynthesis in rubber embryogenic callus lines. Transgenic lines were successfully established and some plants were regenerated. Overexpression of EcGSH1 gene led to glutathione over-accumulation, and affected dramatically the somatic embryogenesis process and plant development. Upon a water deficit treatment, these plants displayed the greatest drop in photosynthetic nitrogen use efficiency, higher proline content, and higher glutathione reductase activity. Changes induced in transgenic lines overexpressing HbCuZnSOD and EcGSH1 were discussed as well as possible applications on plant material propagation, overcoming loss of natural rubber production through Tapping Panel Dryness, and tropical soil remediation.