Proteomics of extreme freezing tolerance in Siberian spruce (Picea obovata)

Differential expression of proteins in needles of the extreme freeze tolerant conifer Picea obovata during September, October and November was analyzed using DIGE technology and multivariate analysis. More than 1200 spots were detected, and the abundance of 252 of these spots was significantly altered during the course of acclimation. The 252 spots were clustered into five distinct expression profiles. Among the protein spots showing differential expression, 43 were identified by MALDI-TOF/TOF and twelve of them matched proteins associated with various biotic and abiotic stress responses in other plants. Dehydrins, Hsp70s, AAA+ ATPases, lipocalin, cyclophilins, glycine-rich protein (GNP) and several reactive oxygen intermediate scavenging proteins showed increased accumulation levels from September to November. The expression profiles and putative role of the identified proteins during acclimation and freezing tolerance are discussed.