PCR-Amplification and Cloning of the Coding Region of a cDNA for a Reversibly Gly cosy l a ted Polypeptide from Rice with Possible Involvement in the Biosynthesis of Glucans

In an attempt to identify genes involved in glucan synthesis, we have amplified the coding region of a clone from a cDNA library prepared from rice inflorescence at the post-fertilization stage. This represents a single copy gene in the rice genome encoding a polypeptide of 41.3 kD, possibly involved in the synthesis of β-1,4 glucan linkages. The transcripts for the gene are more abundant in developing seeds of millets and stay for a longer period during temporal development as compared to rice. The targeted expression of the gene in the endosperm tissue of cereals like rice can help improve glucan content and nutrient status.