Isolation of a fruit-specific promoter in grape (Vitis Vinifera cv. Campbell)

Abstract

Vitis Vinifera Thaumatin-Like protein 1 (VVTL1) is a fruit-specific and ripening related protein in grape. In order to develop a grape fruit-specific promoter, VVTL1 probe was prepared by PCR. Southern blot analysis revealed there is single copy of VVTL1 gene in grape genome. Based on the southern blot data, a genomic library was constructed using genomic DNAs fully digested SacI and was screened with VVTL1 probe prepared by PCR. Genomic DNA clone containing VVTL1 gene was isolated. VVTL1 gene contained one exon and no intron. The genomic structure was the same with those of other PR-5 genes such as osmotin gene and osmotin-like protein genes. Transcription start site was determined by primer extention analysis. In the promoter region four TCA-like element and putative ABRE were found as well as TATA box and CAAT box. The promoter region did not show sequence homology with otherPR-5 genes.