Two soybean (Glycine max L.) GmPM proteins reduce liposome leakage during desiccation

Immature seeds can acquire the traits of desiccation tolerance and germination after precocious maturation. This process is associated with the accumulation of non-reducing sugars and late embryogenesis abundant (LEA) proteins. LEA proteins were first identified from late developmental seeds and were proposed to be associated with desiccation tolerance. In the present study, we examined whether purified LEA fusion proteins from soybean seeds can maintain the integrity of artificial liposomes under desiccation. We also studied the relationship between the protective effects of LEA protein–sucrose glasses and desiccated membrane. GmPM6 (LEA II) but not GmPM16 (LEA IV) provided significant protection to dehydrated liposomes. However, neither GmPM6nor GmPM16-sucrose glasses could protect these liposomes. We discuss the functions of cellular glass in mature orthodox seeds.