Beyond the ABC-Model: Regulation of Floral Homeotic Genes

Laura M. Zahn, Baomin Feng, Hong Ma

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapter

72 Scopus citations

Abstract

The ABC-model explains the genetic basis for the specification of floral organ identities, stating that A-function is required for the sepal, (A + B)-functions are necessary for the petal, (B + C)-functions are needed for the stamen, and C-function is essential for the carpel. Molecular cloning revealed that all ABC-genes encode transcriptional regulators and most are MADS-box genes. This chapter focuses on molecular genetic studies that have identified numerous genes that affect A-, B-, and C-functions by regulating specific genes that are required for A-, B-, or C-function. These genes act at both the transcriptional and posttranscriptional levels and encode a variety of regulatory proteins. Discoveries and analyses of these genes provide further understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying floral development and lay a foundation for greater advances in this fertile field of plant development. Future studies using genomic and evolutionary approaches promise to reveal an expanding knowledge of the floral molecular machinery.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationDevelopmental Genetics of the Flower
EditorsDouglas Soltis, James Leebens-Mack, Pamela Soltis, J.A. Callow
Pages163-207
Number of pages45
DOIs
StatePublished - 2006

Publication series

NameAdvances in Botanical Research
Volume44
ISSN (Print)0065-2296

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Plant Science

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