Protein Bodies from Developing Seeds of Barley, Maize, Wheat and Peas: The Effects of Protease Treatment

When isolated protein bodies of barley were treated with proteinase-k they were almost completely digested. Similar results were obtained when fresh homogenates, prepared by rapid chopping of barley or wheat endosperms into isolation medium, were incubated with the protease. In contrast, the protein bodies of developing maize endosperms, or pea cotyledons were resistant to protease attack. The results are interpreted as indicating that isolated protein bodies of developing wheat and barley endosperms are not surrounded by a complete membrane whereas those of the pea cotyledons and maize endosperms are.