Localization and Function of Cellulase in Endosperm Cells of Panax ginseng Seeds during Maturation and After-ripening

인삼 종자의 성숙과 후숙 과정에서 배유세포내 섬유소 가수분해효소의 분포 및 기능

The active sites, intracellular transport, function of cellulase in association with the disintegration of the storage materials of the endosperm cells during seed maturation and after-ripening of Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer seeds were studied by electron microscopy. Cytochemical activities of the cellulase occurred in protein bodies and vesicles of endosperm cells in seed with red seed coat. In after-ripening seed, the activities were strongly found in the cell wall of endosperm near the umbiliform layer and on neighbouring vesicles, so it is assumed that these cells begin to be decomposed. Cellulase activities were initiated before the decomposition of storage materials. But, no activity was observed in the umbiliform layer, so it is suggested that cellulase lose its activity after the completion of lysis process.