Abstract
The arabinogalactan protein (AGP) family is one of the most complex protein families and is ubiquitous in the plant kingdom. Moreover, it has been demonstrated to play various roles during plant reproduction. A typical AGP contains a hydroxyproline-rich core protein with high heterogeneity and varying numbers of polysaccharide side chains. However, the functions of the polysaccharide components (i.e. AG sugar chains) remain largely unknown due to the general difficulties associated with studying sugar chains in glycobiology. In recent years, methodological breakthroughs have resulted in substantial progress in AGP research. Here, we summarise the multiple roles of AGPs during plant gametophyte development and male–female communication, with a focus on recent advances. In addition, we discuss the analytical tools used in AGP research, and the biosynthesis and function of AG sugar chains. A comprehensive understanding of the AGP family will help clarify the mechanisms precisely controlling reproductive processes.
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Acknowledgements
TH was supported by the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research on Innovative Areas Nos. JP16H06465, JP16H06464, and JP16K21727) and by Mizutani Foundation for Glycoscience (No. 180190).
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Communicated by Mengxiang Sun.
A contribution to the special issue ‘Plant Reproduction Research in Asia’.
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Su, S., Higashiyama, T. Arabinogalactan proteins and their sugar chains: functions in plant reproduction, research methods, and biosynthesis. Plant Reprod 31, 67–75 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00497-018-0329-2
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00497-018-0329-2