| Abstract Detail
Evolutionary Developmental Biology (Evo-Devo) Preston, Jill [1], Orozco, Rebecca [2], Hileman, Lena [1]. Evolution of SQUAMOSA-PROMOTER BINDING PROTEIN LIKE (SPL) genes in the core eudicot flowering time and branching pathways. SQUAMOSA-PROMOTER BINDING PROTEIN LIKE (SPL) proteins comprise a large family of transcription factors that are collectively involved in the regulation of critical developmental traits, including phase change, branching architecture, anthocyanin production, and fruit morphology. Data from a few monocots and dicots suggest some conservation of SPL gene function through their negative regulation by the microRNA miR156. However, studies also suggest complex sub- and neo-functionalization following both recent and ancient gene duplications, and speciation events. In order to dissect the importance of SPL gene duplication in gene network and trait evolution, we are carrying out functional analyses on A-clade SPLgenes in three representative species of asterids (Mimulus guttatus, Antirrhinum majus, and Petunia hybrida) under different environmental conditions. Placed in a comparative framework, our data suggest that paralogous A-clade SPL genes have similar roles in vegetative branching but divergent roles in flowering time. Furthermore, orthologous genes in different species have evolved primarily through differential regulation by distinct flowering pathways. This study provides insight into the importance of sub-functionalization and regulatory modification in the evolution of life-history traits that are critical determinants of plant fitness. Broader Impacts:
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1 - University Of Kansas, 1200 Sunnyside Avenue, Lawrence, KS, 66045, USA, 785-864-5706 2 - University of Kansas, Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, 1200 Sunnyside Avenue, Lawrence, KS, 66045, USA
Keywords: SPL proteins Gene duplication Flowering time Vegetative branching Petunia hybrida Mimulus guttatus Antirrhinum majus.
Presentation Type: Oral Paper:Papers for Topics Session: 22 Location: Delaware C/Hyatt Date: Tuesday, July 10th, 2012 Time: 8:45 AM Number: 22004 Abstract ID:120 |