Expressed Sequence Tags (ESTs) isolated from the unicellular green algae,
Chlorella vulgaris, are disclosed. The invention encompasses nucleic acid
molecules that encode Chlorella protein homologs and fragments thereof.
In addition, antibodies capable of binding the proteins are encompassed
by the present invention. The disclosed ESTs have particular utility in
isolating genes and promoters, identifying and mapping the genes involved
in developmental and metabolic pathways, and determining gene function.
The ESTs provide a unique molecular tool for the targeting and isolation
of novel genes for plant protection and improvement. The invention also
relates to methods of using the disclosed nucleic acid molecules,
proteins, fragments of proteins, and antibodies, for example, for gene
identification and analysis, and preparation of constructs.