Studying allelic diversity and stress response of PEPC (Phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase) in Norway spruce (Picea abies)

A novel experimental approach in ecological genetics for analysing allelic diversity at an isoenzyme-gene-system is presented. This approach is based on the question how individual genetic diversity is implemented in adaptive processes towards stress. Phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase (PEPC; EC 4.1.1.31) of Norway spruce was chosen as a model-system for tracing diversity from the DNA-level to the enzyme. Spruce clones were available and genotyped by native starch gel-electrophoresis. For each of the three PEPC genotypes (A1A1, A1A2, A2A2) clones were selected for controlled fumigation. In order to retrieve the alleles A1 and A2 on the DNA level, the molecular organisation (single copy/gene family) of PEPC has to be investigated. Methodical approach and first results on putative gene-loci are presented. Further experimentsl aim at functional diversity of PEPC on the basis of RNA and protein properties.