2007 Annual Report 1a.Objectives (from AD-416) The objective of this cooperative project is:. 1)to determine the differences in the expression of genes and proteins in plants grown in a greenhouse environment (no UV-B) compared to those in 'field conditions' (normal ambient UV-B concentrations), and. 2)to identify the protein and genetic changes during hidden hunger, and using this information, deveolop a technique that growers can use to test their plants for specific and/or general nutrient deficiencies. 1b.Approach (from AD-416) Microarray techniques will be used to rapidly screen for global differences in gene expression between the two different UV-B environments and nutrient (i.e., N,P,K,Fe,B, and Mg) stress. The initial use of an existing model plant system (i.e., Arabidopsis thaliana) for this work will facilitate identification of specific genes that are responsive to the absence of UV-B during growth. After identifying such UV-B and nutrient stress responsive genes in Arabidopsis, we can then identify related genes in bedding plant species (i.e., impatiens, petunia, begonia, geranium, marigold, pansy, chrysanthemum, and New Guinea impatiens). Simultaneously, proteomics techniques (i.e., identification of proteins of interest by 2-D gel analysis, followed by protein sequencing) will be used to screen for global differences in protein expression between the two different UV-B environments. 3.Progress Report This report documents research conducted under a Specific Cooperative Agreement between ARS and the University of Toledo. Additional details of the research can be found in the report for the parent project 3607-21000-011-00D Develop Improved Technologies for Soilless Greenhouse Plant Production to Minimize Water, Labor, Agrochemical Inputs and Environmental Impacts. We have completed a study with Pelargonium x hortorum that followed up on previous work with Arabidopsis thaliana that identified specific proteins that were responsive to boron stress. This study tested photosynthetic function (A-Ci curves) each day in response to boron deficiency at two light levels. This work has confirmed that photosynthesis (especially rubisco activity and chlorophyll content) is an early target of B stress, and proceeds general secondary damage to proteins. An additional finding was that boron stress was delayed with elevated light (300 micromoles m-2 s-1 vs. 100 micromoles m-2 s-1), suggesting that carbohydrate status within a plant can help mitigate boron stress. These accomplishments address NP-305, Component I, Problem Statement C. The ADODR monitored activities regularly through personal contacts and meetings with the PI(s), their post-docs, and graduate students since the research is conducted in the same building on the UT campus.