Abstract Detail

Recent Topics Posters

Gentzel, Irene [1], Siriwardana, Nirodhini [1], Lamb, Rebecca [1].

Genetic and molecular interactions between the Arabidopsis thaliana transcription factors LEAFY and FRIEND OF LEAFY1.

The process by which plants produce flowers is amazingly complex, involving a web of interacting genes that coordinate the formation of flower organs. Work in the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana has revealed that the LEAFY (LFY) transcription factor has an essential role in regulating flower formation. Null lfy-6 mutants attest to this, as they fail to produce normal flowers, but instead form extra leaves and branches and abnormal flower-like structures late in the Arabidopsis life cycle. However, LFY does not act alone to regulate transcription of its target genes. We have identified a novel C2H2 zinc finger transcription factor, encoded by FRIEND OF LEAFY 1 (FOL1), that interacts physically with LFY, as demonstrated by bimolecular fluorescence complementation (BiFC) and immunoprecipitations. This study aims to reveal the roles FOL1 and its protein product have in the flowering process, in conjunction with LFY. Knockdown experiments utilizing artificial microRNAs (amiRNAs) have revealed that FOL1 functions in the inflorescence meristem, the floral meristem and in the gametophytes. Phenotypic consequences of reduction in FOL1 expression include stunted height, fasciated stems, and abnormal floral organ size, number, and arrangement. Genetic interactions between the amiRNA lines and lfy mutants will be presented. In addition, analysis of the ability of FOL1 to interact with itself and LFY will be presented. Once the role of FOL1 is completely understood, this novel gene could ultimately lead to discoveries in crop development, as flowering plants produce nourishment for almost every organism on Earth.

Broader Impacts:

1 - The Ohio State University, Molecular Genetics, 500 Aronoff Laboratory, 318 West 12th Avenue, Columbus, Ohio, 43210, USA

Keywords:
Arabidopsis thaliana
C2H2 zinc finger
artificial microRNA
LEAFY.

Presentation Type: Recent Topics Poster
Session: P
Location: Battelle South/Convention Center
Date: Monday, July 9th, 2012
Time: 5:30 PM
Number: PRT021
Abstract ID:1314