Abstract Detail

Evolutionary Developmental Biology (Evo-Devo)

Hightower, Asia [1], Golenberg, Edward [2].

Sculpting an imperfect flower: The study of KNUCKLES in primordia regulation.

The evolution of sex determination in plants is a central problem in plant evolutionary biology. Currently, there have been limited studies in which the sex determination genes are identified yet we do not know most of the alternative downstream pathways that lead to developmental differences in plants that exhibit sexual dimorphism. Addressing this gap in knowledge is important as it will give insight into the genetic regulation of developmental processes in unisexual flowers and in angiosperm flowers in general. The investigation into the link between the differential expression patters of genetic pathways and the differential expression in floral development involves the differential expression of AG, WUS, and the proposed transcription repressor gene KNUCKLES (KNU)as they relate to the differential formation of floral organ primordia in male and female Spinacia oleraceaflowers. Our central hypothesis is that the AG-KNU-WUSpathway regulates the differential morphogenesis of organ primordia between male and female flowers leading to sexual dimorphism in spinach. To test this hypothesis, molecular genetics tools are utilized to quantify KNUCKLEStemporal and spatial expression patterns, along with functional testing. Preliminary studies have begun that include characterizing KNU-likegene expression and the phenotypes of KNU-likeknockdowns in S. oleracea. Preliminary results show strong phenotypes in the vegetative tissue that are related to the regulation of organ primordia and meristem maintenance.

1 - Wayne State University , Biological Sciences, 5047 Gullen Mall, Detroit, MI, 48201, United States
2 - Wayne State University, Department Of Biological Sciences, Department Of Biological Sciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, 48202, United States

Keywords:
Dioecy
Dimorphism
Spinach
 Sex Determination.

Presentation Type: Oral Paper
Session: EVDV1, Evolutionary Developmental Biology (Evo-Devo)
Location: Tucson E/Starr Pass
Date: Monday, July 29th, 2019
Time: 2:45 PM
Number: EVDV1006
Abstract ID:75
Candidate for Awards:Katherine Esau Award