Project Number: 3622-21000-027-02
Project Type: Reimbursable

Start Date: Jan 01, 2006
End Date: Dec 31, 2007

Objective:
The major objectives for this project will be to develop methodology to demonstrate and evaluate the efficiency of down-regulation of a flower-specific gene that should produce total vegetative growth in transgenic turfgrass for the purpose of using this as a versatile strategy for prevention of transgene escape; and to demonstrate and evaluate the feasibility of using FLP-mediated site-specific DNA excisional recombination for controlled vegetative growth in turfgrass.

Approach:
Utilize the known FLO/LFY gene fragment, isolated by Dr. Hong Luo to generate the complete sequence of the FLO/LFY gene from turfgrass, including its promoter, which will allow for other RNAi or antisense strategics to be developed. Isolate the FLO/LFY promoter and to test its ability to direct floral meristem specific expression in turfgrass (in collaboration with the complete research team).