Project Number: 5335-21000-029-00
Project Type: Appropriated

Start Date: Apr 06, 2006
End Date: Apr 05, 2011

Objective:
Objective 1: To identify additional components of the CLAVATA meristem signal transduction pathway. Objective 2: To characterize the role of microRNAs and their target genes in regulating Arabidopsis shoot apical meristem activity. Objective 3: To determine the function of the Arabidopsis BOP1 and BOP2 genes in regulating shoot apical meristem activity and leaf development. Objective 4: To develop and test hypotheses to determine how knowledge of plant architectural genes in Arabidopsis can be applied to crop plants.

Approach:
Identify, isolate and characterize genes that regulate plant architecture in model systems and agriculturally important crops by 1) using a sensitized genetic screen to uncover novel components of the Arabidopsis thaliana CLAVATA stem cell signaling pathway; 2) determining the role of a small regulatory RNA and its five target genes in regulating stem cell maintenance during development; 3) analyzing the function of the BOP1 and BOP2 genes in regulating stem cell activity and leaf formation; and 4) developing and testing hypotheses on how knowledge of plant architectural genes in Arabidopsis can be applied to crop plants through the identification and functional analysis of orthologous genes. REPLACES 5335-21000-016-00D (4/06). BSL 1; 2/14/08.