Abstract Detail

Evolutionary Developmental Biology (Evo-Devo)

Phillips, Heather [1], Bruenn, Riva [2], Landis, Jacob [3], Specht, Chelsea [4].

Elucidating the roles of MYB-related transcription factors in Zingiberales Zygomorphy.

Zygomorphy has arisen independently multiple times throughout the angiosperms, and is often associated with increased diversification and more exclusive pollinator relationships. The genetic regulatory network for zygomorphy has been previously elucidated in the model system Antirrhinum majus, and includes members of the TCP and MYB gene families. While TCP transcription factors are well documented, less is known about the evolution and function of the MYB gene family. In this study, we investigate the evolution of the MYB-like transcription factors RADIALIS (RAD) and DIVARICATA (DIV), as well as the MYB-like protein DIV and RAD INTERACTING FACTOR (DRIF). By applying a combined systematic, transcriptomic, and expression analysis approach in Costus spicatus, Musa basjoo and Canna indica, we are able to determine the role of these MYB-related genes in the evolution and development of zygomorphy in the Zingiberales. Phylogenetic analysis reveals multiple duplication events throughout angiosperm evolution, and within the Zingiberales, at least three copies of DIV-like and RAD-like genes are present. RT-PCR and in situ hybridization shows that RAD and DIV-like expression is consistent with a role in floral symmetry, suggesting that these genes have been coopted in the Zingiberales in order to produce a zygomorphic corolla. Advancements in Oxford nanopore sequencing have allowed us to generate comprehensive new floral transcriptomes for these species as a means to identify additional candidate homologues within the MYB-like family of transcription factors. By combining our expression analysis and transcriptomic data, we are working to design knockout lines with CRISPR/CAS9 targeted gene editing and our ongoing tissue culture. This research will not only allow us to better understand how zygomorphy evolved in the Zingiberales, but will also provide us with a greater context of zygomorphy across the angiosperms.

1 - P.O. Box 6641, Ithaca, NY, 14851, United States
2 - Plant And Microbial Biology, 431 Koshland, Berkeley, CA, 94720, United States
3 - University of California, Riverside, Botany and Plant Sciences, Riverside, CA, 92521, USA
4 - Cornell University, Plant Biology, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA

Keywords:
Zingiberales
flower symmetry
bilateral symmetry
MYB transcription factor
Costus spicatus
Canna indica
Musa basjoo.

Presentation Type: Poster
Session: P, Evolutionary Developmental Biology (Evo-Devo) Posters
Location: Arizona Ballroom/Starr Pass
Date: Monday, July 29th, 2019
Time: 5:30 PM This poster will be presented at 5:30 pm. The Poster Session runs from 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm. Posters with odd poster numbers are presented at 5:30 pm, and posters with even poster numbers are presented at 6:15 pm.
Number: PEV003
Abstract ID:759
Candidate for Awards:Developmental and Structural Section best poster