Deciding exactly when to flower is an important time in the lifecycle of all flowering plants as, more often than not, successful sexual reproduction can only take place under favourable conditions. In order to coordinate flowering with the appropriate season and developmental stage a plant must be able to detect and respond appropriately to the major seasonal cues of day length and temperature, as well as other local environmental and internal signals. So how is it that the plants in your garden manage to accomplish this seemingly complex task every year? Until recently this question had vexed scientist and horticulturists alike. However, with the exciting advances in modern molecular genetics scientists have finally solved this puzzle.
Ground breaking research conducted by Koornneef et al[1] on the unassuming Thale Cress (Arabidopsis thaliana) has revealed the majority of the genes involved in the control of flowering time, as well as many of the biochemical processes by which these genes act. Using this information Koornneef et al have constructed a working model of the genetic control of flowering time which, interestingly enough, is essentially mediated by the two genes Flowering locus C(FLC) and Frigida(FRI). Further research is currently being conducted into the applicability of this model to other angiosperms[2], but we can speculate as to the massive agricultural and economic implications that these findings may have on the future of genetically modified crops.
Ground breaking research conducted by Koornneef et al[1] on the unassuming Thale Cress (Arabidopsis thaliana) has revealed the majority of the genes involved in the control of flowering time, as well as many of the biochemical processes by which these genes act. Using this information Koornneef et al have constructed a working model of the genetic control of flowering time which, interestingly enough, is essentially mediated by the two genes Flowering locus C(FLC) and Frigida(FRI). Further research is currently being conducted into the applicability of this model to other angiosperms[2], but we can speculate as to the massive agricultural and economic implications that these findings may have on the future of genetically modified crops.
Written by Michael Lonne (s41220605)
