Molecular cloning of a cDNA from Brassica napus L. for a homologue of acyl-CoA-binding protein.

A cDNA encoding an acyl-CoA-binding protein (ACBP) homologue has been cloned from a lambda gt11 library made from mRNA isolated from developing seeds of oilseed rape (Brassica napus L.). The derived amino acid sequence reveals a protein 92 amino acids in length which is highly conserved when compared with ACBP sequences from yeast, cow, man and fruit fly. Southern blot analysis of Brassica napus genomic DNA revealed the presence of 6 genes, 3 derived from the Brassica rapa parent and 3 from Brassica oleracea. Northern blot analysis showed that ACBP genes are expressed strongly in developing embryo, flowers and cotyledons of seedlings and to a lesser extent in leaves and roots.