Functional Analysis of SBPase Gene Promoter in Transgenic Wheat under Abiotic Stresses

Background and Objective: This study focused on evaluation of SBPase promoter in driving transgenes under drought, high light intensity and salinity as major abiotic stresses limiting plant growth and production in various areas of the world. Wheat production has remained constant despite the rapidly growing population around the world.

Materials and Methods: This had made it necessary to develop other varieties with higher yield in order to satisfy the future demand. When elite wheat varieties’ photosynthesis is genetically manipulated, it gives a high possibility for yield increase. Lack of a properly defined molecular tool-box promoter for driving gene expression for manipulation of photosynthesis, hinders the progression of this field. Gus histochemical staining and quantitative PCR were used to examine the function of Brachypodium distachyon sedoheptulose-1, 7-bisphosphatase (SBPase) promoter to drive the expression of GUS in the stably transformed wheat plants under various stresses conditions.

Results: Results revealed that B. distachyon SBPase promoter fully drive the GUS expression in the stable wheat transformants (cv. Cadenza) in the leaf tissues under normal and high light conditions. It also drove GUS gene expression under drought and salinity stress conditions. In addition, the promoter responds to light/dark/light alternation as light responsive genes.

Conclusion: The Bd SBPase promoter provides innovative molecular tool to drive genes in wheat leaves under natural, drought, high light intensity and salinity conditions as well as to allow for multigene photosynthetic manipulation for yield increase under various abiotic conditions.