This invention is directed to a method for the expression of a gene of
interest, or a chimeric or modified gene allowing the localization of a
protein, protein fusion, peptide or fragment of interest within the
extracellular domain of a floral cell. This method comprises preparing a
construct comprising a promoter sequence capable of expressing a gene
encoding the protein, protein fusion, peptide, or fragment of interest,
within the floral cell; a translated sequence of the protein, protein
fusion, peptide, or fragment of interest, which is localized within the
extracellular domain of a floral cell; a gene that encodes the protein,
protein fusion, peptide, or fragment of interest; and a terminator
sequence, and transforming a plant. Plants transformed with such a
construct are characterized as having a protein, fragment thereof, or
peptide of interest on the surface of a floral cell. Such localized
proteins or peptides may be used for the purposes of peptide display,
mediating plant sterility, modifying pollen-pistil interactions, altering
pollen for insect consumption etc.