Alterations in the biosynthesis of proteins and nucleic acids in finger millet (Eleucine coracana) seedlings during water stress and the effect of proline on protein biosynthesis

Abstract

The biosynthesis of DNA appeared to be unaffected in the water-stressed seedlings of finger millet (Eleucine coracana), but an increase in the synthesis de novo of RNA and proteins was observed during mild water stress. The polyribosome content was also increased in stressed finger millet seedlings. Proline, a solute which accumulates during water stress, enhanced the incorporation of radioactive precursors into proteins; caused an increase in translatability of finger millet messengers in vitro; and stabilized the polyribosomes isolated from normal seedlings. The results emphasize the role of proline in the adaptation of finger millet to the intermittent drought it experiences during cultivation.