Isolation of a gene preferentially expressed in mature anthers of rice (Oryza sativa L.)

Using monoclonal antibodies raised against pollen-specific proteins, we have isolated a cDNA clone, designatedOry-Cl from a rice anther cDNA expression library. A transcript corresponding to theOry-Cl gene showed preferential expression in anthers. This transcript was not detected in any vegetative tissues analysed. RNA gel blot analysis of different developmental stages of anthers showed that theOry-Cl gene is expressed at later stages of pollen development. In situ hybridisation showed that theOry-Cl transcript is only present in mature pollen.