In Silicon Cloning and Analysis of a LACS Gene in Brassica Napus

Long chain acyl-coenzyme A synthetases (LACSs) activate free fatty acid to acyl-CoA thioesters, and play important roles in the biosynthesis and degradation of lipids. In this study, a Brassica napus LACS gene has been found through in silicon cloning. The gene is 2,270 bp with 2,004 bp of open reading frame (ORF), encoding a LACS with 667 amino acid residues designated BnLACS4. Sequence analysis indicated that BnLACS4 possessed typical molecular characteristics of LACS. Expression analysis revealed BnLACS4 expressed in mature roots, stems, leaves and flowers. The gene expressed differently in seeds and pod coats among different oil content varieties at 35 days after pollination (DAP). The expression pattern suggested that BnLACS4 might be involved in the biosynthesis of lipids and oil accumulation in rapeseed.