Identification of a phosphoprotein expressed during somatic embryogenesis in wheat leaf base cultures

2,4-D mediated induction of somatic embryogenesis in wheat is enhanced in the presence of Call and its removal by EGTA reduces the response significantly. Changes that occur at the polypeptide level following 2,4-D treatment were analysed. Intense cell division activity was discernable in the leaf base explants within an hour of treatment. Changes in protein profiles were prominent in the membrane fraction as compared to the soluble fraction. The protein profile of the leaf base culture with somatic embryos was distinct from the calli induced from mature embryos on a 2,4-D containing medium. The role of Ca2+ in the induction of somatic embryogenesis was demonstrated by the use of EGTA (a calcium chelator), verapamil, nifedipine (calcium channel blockers), W7 (calmodulin antagonist) and Li (1131 inhibitor). In vitro protein phosphorylation studies showed that 2,4-D, calcium and related treatments inhibit phosphorylation of proteins. In the membrane fraction proteins, accumulation of polypeptides at the low molecular weight range was seen in samples treated with verapamil and W7, and a 310 kD polypeptide in the samples treated with calmodulin antagonist, W7. Autoradiography of membrane fraction proteins displayed the presence of a 16 kD protein phosphorylated in samples treated with verapamil, nifedipine and W7. It thus appears that 2,4-D and Call prevent the phosphorylation of this phosphoprotein. These results thus indicate the action of 2,4-D via the Ca2+-CaM signaling pathway in triggering the induction of somatic embryogenesis.