Dynamic Organelle Changes and Autophagic Processes in Lily Pollen Germination

Abstract Pollen germination is a crucial process in the life cycle of flowering plants, signifying the transition of quiescent pollen grains into active growth. This study delves into the dynamic changes within organelles and the pivotal role of autophagy during lily pollen germination—initially, mature pollen grains harbor undifferentiated organelles, including amyloplasts, mitochondria, and the Golgi apparatus. However, germination unveils remarkable transformations, such as the redifferentiation of amyloplasts accompanied by starch granule accumulation. We investigate the self-sustained nature of amylogenesis during germination, shedding light on its association with osmotic pressure. Employing BODIPY 493/503 staining, we tracked lipid body distribution throughout pollen germination, both with or without autophagy inhibitors (3-MA, NEM). Typically, lipid bodies undergo polarized movement from pollen grains into elongating pollen tubes, which is crucial for directional growth. Inhibiting autophagy disrupted this essential lipid body redistribution, underscoring the interaction between autophagy and lipid body dynamics. Notably, tubular endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-like structure their participation in autophagy. Starch granules, lipid bodies, and membrane remnants observed within vacuoles further reinforce the involvement of autophagic processes. The autophagy inhibitors, particularly BFA, significantly impede germination and growth, affecting Golgi morphology. Immunogold labeling substantiates the pivotal role of the ER in forming autophagosome-like compartments and protein localization. Our proposed speculative model of pollen germination encompasses proplastid differentiation and autophagosome formation. This study advances our understanding of organelle dynamics and autophagy during pollen germination, providing valuable insights into plant reproductive physiology.