Characterization of Hemicellulose and Starch Biosynthesis Genes in Avena

The allocation of simple sugars in the cereals toward different molecules such as metabolites, cell-wall structural polysaccharides or starch is a primary determinant of the nutritional value of the seed. In an effort to better understand the genetic control of carbohydrate allocation during seed development in Avena a series of key genes are characterized. CesA6 catalytic subunit is involved in the biosynthesis of cellulose specializing in the synthesis of the primary cell wall. ADP-glucose pyrophosphorylase is responsible for the first committed step in the synthesis of ADP-glucose, which is then used as the precursor molecule for all starch synthesis. UDP-glucose pyrophosphorylase catalyzes the reversible production of UDP-glucose from Glc-1-P and UTP. Sequence data for these genes will be presented from multiple Avena species including the diploid species A. strigosa (AA), A. canaeriensis (DD), and A. ventricosa (CC).  Gene structure and unique variants will be presented as well as comparisons of Avena sequences with other cereal species.