Major latex-like proteins show pH dependency in their binding to hydrophobic organic pollutants

The Cucurbitaceae family accumulates hydrophobic organic pollutants in its aerial parts at high concentrations. Major latex-like proteins (MLPs) were identified zucchini ( Cucurbita pepo) as a transporting factor for pollutants. MLPs bind to the roots, are secreted xylem vessels complexes, and transported parts. However, suitable conditions binding remain elusive. In present study, we show that pollutant pyrene with higher affinity under acidic conditions. Our results demonstrated pH regulates of