Characterization of naturel rubber biosynthesis in Ficus benghalensis
2000
Kang, H. (Kumbo Life and Environmental Science Laboratory, Kwangju (Republique de Coree)) | Kim, Y.S. | Chung, G.C.
Natural rubber was identified for the first time in the latex of Ficus benghalensis, and the rubber biosynthetic activity in latex and rubber particles was investigated. 13C NMR analysis of samples prepared by successive extractions with acetone and benzene confirmed that the benzene-soluble residues were naturel rubber, cis-1,4-polyisoprene. The rubber content in the latex of F. benghalensis was approximately 17 %. Gel permeation chromatography revealed that the molecular mass of the naturel rubber from F. benghalensis was approximately 1500 kDa. The high rubber content and large molecular size suggest that F. benghalensis is a good candidate for an alternative rubber source. Examination of latex serum from F. benghalensis by SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis revealed a small number of proteins with major proteins of 31 and 55 kDa in size. The 31-kDa protein was predominant in catalytically-active rubber particles. Determination of metal ion concentration in latex and a comparison of the effect of ethylenediamine-tetraacetic acid on in vitro rubber biosynthesis in F. benghalensis, F. carica and Hevea brasiliensis suggest that the divalent metal ion present in latex serum is an important physiological factor controlling the rubber biosynthetic activities in these plant species. Microscopic examination revealed that the rubber in F. benghalensis occurred in a series of laticifer cells located in concentric zones in the inner bark of stems and branches.
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