Transgenes and protein localization: myths and legends

Trends Plant Sci. 2013 Sep;18(9):473-6. doi: 10.1016/j.tplants.2013.07.003. Epub 2013 Aug 8.

Abstract

Fluorescent protein (FP) fusions are frequently used to localize and follow the movement of proteins in living cells. However, a consensus is missing about the experimental design and controls that guarantee the reliability of the results. Here, we discuss possible artifacts and try to navigate through the many methods, preferences, and assumptions that surround protein localization in plants that make it difficult to design a universal approach to achieve reliable results.

Keywords: CaMV35S promoter; GFP fusions; protein localization; transgenes.

MeSH terms

  • Gene Expression
  • Genetic Markers
  • Genetic Vectors
  • Green Fluorescent Proteins
  • Plant Cells / metabolism
  • Plant Proteins / genetics
  • Plant Proteins / metabolism*
  • Plants / genetics
  • Plants / metabolism*
  • Promoter Regions, Genetic
  • Protein Transport
  • Recombinant Fusion Proteins / genetics
  • Recombinant Fusion Proteins / metabolism*
  • Reproducibility of Results
  • Research Design
  • Transgenes*

Substances

  • Genetic Markers
  • Plant Proteins
  • Recombinant Fusion Proteins
  • Green Fluorescent Proteins