We use cookies on our website. Some are necessary for the operation of the website. You can also allow cookies for statistical purposes. You can adjust the data protection settings or agree to all cookies directly.
MAIZE-TF - Functional genomics of transcription factors in maize seed development, project 1
Project
Project code: 0313095A
Contract period: 01.08.2004
- 31.12.2006
Budget: 140,806 Euro
Purpose of research: Basic research
To decipher the molecular mechanisms regulating maize seed development we propose to determine the function of 20 transcription factors (TFs) selected for seed specific expression or changes in expression during different developmental stages. Candidate genes will be identified in the Genoplante maize EST collection by exhaustive searches with key words, motives and complete protein sequences of TFs identified in the Arabidopsis genome. 20 TFs will be chosen for functional analysis based on bioanalysis of the sequence and expression profiles obtained by RT-PCR. Full length cDNAs will be isolated and used for sense and/or RNAi constructs. Transgenic plants over- or under-expressing the respective genes will be generated. For the comprehensive characterisation of the transgenic plants morphologic and cytological observations will be combined with genome-wide transcriptome analysis by micro-arrays, metabolome analysis by retrobiosynthetic NMR and agronomic evaluation by NIRS. Taken together the results will allow us identify not only individual genes but entire metabolic or developmental pathways regulated by these TFs. The knowledge gathered will be useful for future attempts to increase seed yield or quality in maize and other cereals by specific modifications of the early development, the accumulation of reserve substances or the entrance into dormancy.
Section overview
Subjects
- Plant Breeding
Framework programme
BMBF - Frameworkprogramm Biotechnology - Using and Shaping its Opportunities