The mRNA-binding ribosomal protein S26 as a molecular marker in plants: molecular cloning, sequencing and differential gene expression during environmental stress

One condition for using a gene as a transcriptional marker for environmenta l stress is its specific and differential expression. In order to be used a s such a marker, the ribosomal protein S26 cDNA from pea (Pisum sativum L.) was cloned and fully sequenced. The gene (PsRPS26) was shown to be differe ntially regulated by ozone and UV-B radiation in opposite ways. Ozone gave rise to increased mRNA levels, whereas W-B led to a decrease in S26 transcr ipt abundance. Thus, the expression of PsRPS26 can be used as a molecular m arker to differentiate between these two environmental stresses. (C) 1999 E lsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.