Abstract
The trans-Golgi network (TGN) is known to be a major sorting organelle. However, recent work has suggested that the TGN is also involved in the endocytic pathway in plant cells. To clarify whether the TGN acts in endocytosis, it is first necessary to visualize the endocytic route in plants. Using a Leu-rich repeat transmembrane receptor kinase, FLAGELLIN SENSITIVE2 (FLS2), as an endocytosis marker, we have succeeded in visualization of endocytosis process in Nicotiana benthamiana. In order to investigate the proteins that function in endocytosis through the TGN, we focused on RABs, small GTPases regulating targeting and/or tethering of transport vesicles. Rab11 is the first candidate because it is localized on recycling endosomes and the TGN. In addition, Rab5 is known to be involved in endocytosis in mammalian and plant cells. We present how Rab11 and Rab5 mediate endocytic transport of FLS2.