Wounding induces the first enzyme of the shikimate pathway in Solanaceae

The first enzyme of the shikimate pathway, 3-deoxy-D-arabino-heptulosonate-7-phosphate synthase (EC 4.1.2.15), is induced by wounding potato or tomato tissue. The increase in enzyme activity is associated with elevated amounts of the enzyme as determined by immunoblots. The specific wound-induced protein synthesis is preceded by an increase in the mRNA encoding this enzyme. The induced mRNA of potato tuber, leaf, and stem tissue is translated into a precursor polypeptide that is recognized by antibodies raised against the mature enzyme from tuber plastids. Wounding also induces mRNA encoding phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (EC 4.3.1.5), a key enzyme of plant secondary metabolism. The time courses for the induction of the two enzymes are similar, suggesting coordinate regulation for the biosynthesis of primary and secondary aromatic compounds.