Project Number: 5335-21000-028-02
Project Type: Reimbursable

Start Date: Sep 15, 2004
End Date: Sep 14, 2008

Objective:
This is a continuation of project 5335-21000-018-03 (493-5335-365), "The Control of Spikelet Meristem Identify by the branched Silkless1 Gene in Maize." We will examine bd1 mutants for misexpression of the Tunicate gene. If Tunicate is misexpressed, we will determine whether it is regulated by BD1. We will determine whether BD1 protein localization is the same as the RNA in wild-type inflorescences. If so, the antibody would be a potentially useful tool for the study of spikelet meristems in other grasses. We will determine the function of ERF4a, ERF4b and EFR15 by obtaining loss of function phenotypes and examining expression patterns. We will use a combination of expression analysis and promoter scanning for the presence of the BD1 binding site to narrow the list of target genes to a few for detailed analysis. Analysis of the We will determine if BD1 interacting kinase (BIP) does in fact phosphorylate BD1 and determine its expression pattern.

Approach:
We will use a combination of genetics and genomics to reach the objectives. We have the Tunicate gene to look at its expression in bd mutants. We have a BD1 antibody to examine BD1 expression. We have obtained Mu insertions in the ERF genes of interest and will obtain additional insertional mutations with other genes under study. Other standard molecular biology and cell biology techniques will be employed as needed. Formerly 5335-21000-018-05R (6/06). BSL-1; 7/1/05. Documents Reimbursable with NRI. Log 25634.