| Boron (B) is an essential micronutrient for the survival of vascular plants. The most severe effect derived from a deficiency of B is the alteration of cell wall biogenesis and pollen germination. We investigated pollen of plant species that require B for germination (Zea may L. and Nicotiana tabacum L.), as well as those that can germinate without B (Pinus sp, Lilum longiflorum, Impatiens sp.). In both groups, B addition in the growth medium increased the length of the pollen tube after germination. Hydroxyproline Rich Glycoproteins (HRGPs) are the most abundant cell wall structural proteins of dicotyledonous plants and the sexual tissues of monocotyledonous plants. Here, we show that maize pollen accumulated a significant pool of hydroxyproline (Hyp) and... |
