CONOCIMIENTOS MOLECULARES SOBRE LA EMBRIOGÉNESIS SOMÁTICA EN Agave angustifolia: CARACTERIZACIÓN DEL GEN AaSERK

Abstract

The Agave genus, with 265 species, including 153 natives to Mexico, is of paramount significance in ethnobotanical, ecological, and economic contexts. However, over-exploitation and uncontrolled harvesting of these plants endanger their survival due to the prevention of sexual reproduction. In response, in vitrotechniques, such as somatic embryogenesis, have been developed for vegetative propagation and species conservation. Somatic embryogenesis transitions cells to totipotency, driven by specific gene expression, endogenous hormones, and responses to external regulators. This work explores the first molecular insights into somatic embryogenesis in the Agave genus through the isolation and characterization of the AaSERK gene. Receptor-Like Kinases (RLKs) with Leucine-Rich Repeats (LRRs) have crucial roles in cellular signaling across various aspects of plant development, including embryogenesis. The presence of a Serine-Proline-Proline motif (SPP) distinguishes SERK from other RLKs, and its expression signifies embryogenic competence. The results reveal that AaSERK encodes a typical SERK protein with conserved domains, indicating its role in plant development. Phylogenetic analysis suggests that AaSERK shares evolutionary ancestry with SERKs of closely related plant species. These findings shed light on somatic embryogenesis in Agave angustifolia and may enhance the regeneration and transformation processes for the conservation of these valuable plants. Understanding the genetic control of totipotency and the molecular regulation of somatic embryogenesis is vital for advancing plant biotechnology and plant physiology.