Objective
The diversity of plant architecture is mainly determined by the shoot branching patterns and leaf forms. Factors involved in either of the two processes have been identified in Solanum lycopersicum (tomato). However, it has been recently demonstrated that some of the genetic modules regulating formation of axillary meristems, from which branches develop, affect also leaf dissection. Yet it is not clear how these modules interact and contribute to both developmental mechanisms.
The aim of this project is to obtain a fundamental genetic and molecular understanding of a common mechanism regulating shoot branching and leaf dissection in tomato. This will be done by an in-depth analysis of these two developmental processes that are regulated by the Trifoliate gene.
Using high-throughput next-generation DNA sequencing coupled with traditional molecular approaches, I will identify genes acting in both processes, which are potentially direct targets of Trifoliate. Subsequently, I will monitor the expression patterns and expression levels of selected candidate genes at different stages of axillary meristem and leaf development. Finally, the functionality of these genes will be tested in the corresponding mutants and overexpression lines as well as by use of transcriptional reporters. This proposed work will help to elucidate general concepts underlying cell competency in the development of tomato.
Fields of science
Topic(s)
Call for proposal
FP7-PEOPLE-2012-IEF
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Funding Scheme
MC-IEF - Intra-European Fellowships (IEF)Coordinator
80539 Munchen
Germany