Objective
Research objectives and content
lhy is a gain of function mutation (due to LHY over-expression) which interferes with the regulation of flowering time in Arabidopsis thaliana. This project aims at:
I. The screening and characterization of mutants where the LHY function is lost, by: - Suppressor mutagenesis: wild type phenotype will be screened for in mutagenised lhy mutants carrying a wild-type LHY transgene. Two types of mutation are expected and will be analysed: lhy null alleles and mutations of genes required for LHY function. - PCR: a T-DNA population will be screened for insertion in LHY by analysing DNA amplification products obtained with specific primers. II. The determination of the developmental stage at which LHY over-expression influences flowering time. Making a translational fusion between CaMV35S::LHY and a steroid-inducible regulator will enable the exogenous control of LHY activity in the nucleus.
Training content (objective, benefit and expected impact)
This research will give information on a novel flowering time gene and will provide new mutants for further investigations. I will acquire expertise in genetic and molecular methods used to study flowering in Arabidopsis, favouring future collaborations with Dr Coupland's and other European groups.
Links with industry / industrial relevance (22)
LHY has been patented. This work will contribute to its exploitation by increasing the understanding of its function.
Fields of science
Call for proposal
Data not availableFunding Scheme
RGI - Research grants (individual fellowships)Coordinator
NR4 7UH Norwich
United Kingdom