Nucleotide sequence of maize chloroplast rpl32: completing the apparent set of plastid ribosomal protein genes and their tentative operon organization

By sequencing the rpl32 gene, we have characterized the apparent complete set of the RP genes in Zea mays plastid genome. Key data for these 21 genes (total of 26 gene copies) and the proteins encoded by them are presented, and the operon organization is discussed on the basis of available transcription data. A nomenclature for the inferred 13 operons is suggested.