Article ID Journal Published Year Pages File Type
9954218 Plant Science 2018 8 Pages PDF
Abstract
Multi-gene families present a rich research area to study how related proteins evolve to acquire new structures and functions. The β-amylase (BAM) gene family is named for catalytic members' ability to hydrolyze starch into maltose units. However, the family also contains proteins that are catalytically inactive, have additional domains, or are not localized with a starch substrate. Here we review the current knowledge of each of the nine Arabidopsis BAMs, including information on their localization, structural features, expression patterns, regulation and potential functions. We also discuss unique characteristics of studying multi-gene families, such as the consideration of different kinetic parameters when performing assays on leaf extracts, and suggest approaches that may be fruitful in learning more about their unique functions.
Related Topics
Life Sciences Agricultural and Biological Sciences Plant Science
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