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A Genomic Approach to Understanding Seed Dormancy

Expression of 779 germination-associated genes in seeds of Arabidopsis thaliana, that are physiologically dormant (PD24h, PD48h, PD30d, SD1, SD2) or close to completion of germination (ND, LIG).

This project is one of a series in the theme of 'Diagnosis of Viability and Germination'.

Physiological seed dormancy is present throughout the higher plants and has a profound impact on the conservation of genetic resources. The function of dormancy is similar across species, i.e. to spread germination across time, but in synchrony with seasonal cycles to avoid unfavourable weather, maximise competitive advantage and to ensure the establishment of plants. Despite this, there is considerable ignorance of how dormancy is controlled at the molecular level and this hampers the development of more efficient practices. In this project, species of the Brassicaceae are studied, however it is anticipated that the work will also have applicability to a wide range of other families.

We study gene expression using Arabidopsis Affymetrix and CATMA microarrays. Gene expression patterns will be identified using seeds of Arabidopsis thaliana ecotype Cvi then compared with other species with somewhat different dormancy behaviour (e.g. Sisymbrium officinale). Fundamental questions will be addressed: 1) how do temperature, light, and nitrate influence gene expression in relation to dormancy status? 2) are seeds that cycle through dormancy identical in gene expression patterns? 3) are differences in the speed of germination between seed lots a manifestation of degrees of dormancy? 4) the environmental cues and physiological mechanisms that control dormancy status may differ between species, but are the same genes involved? Following studies on A. thaliana ecotype Cvi comparisons could then be made more widely within the Brassicaceae to generalise the findings. First results have identified subsets of dormancy- and germination-associated genes.

The objective of this project is to explain germination and dormancy in terms of gene expression; to identify a comprehensive set of genes that are suitable as indicators of physiological states, as demonstrated for a limited set by Toorop et al. published in Planta (2005). The purpose is to generate a better understanding of dormancy, which can be used to understand the behaviour of banked seeds. The project may lead to the development of a diagnostics test to assess dormancy and germination capacity in any accession of the MSB, as demonstrated for two markers in B. oleracea. The project links with a future collaboration between the SCD and Scottish Crop Research Institute on dormancy in a range of ecotypes.

Duration: 2003-2007

Outputs: peer-reviewed publications

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