Transcription of a β-1,3-glucanase gene in grape berries in a late developmental period, or earlier after wounding treatments

The hydrolytic enzymes beta -1,3-glucanases (EC 3.2.1.39) are known to be involved in plant defense reactions against pathogens and in developmental events. We have obtained two partial cDNA clones, corresponding to Vitis vinifera beta -1,3-glucanase gene sequences (VvGlu1/7 and VvGlu26). The expression of VvGlu1/7 was studied in grape berries at different developmental stages and in wounded berries with or without salicylic acid elicitation. No constitutive expression was observed in young berries, whereas the induction of VvGlu1/7 transcription was detected during fruit ripening. By contrast, synthesis of mRNA coding for this isoform was generated in the first stage of rapid berry growth in response to wounding treatments with and without salicylic acid.