Natural apomixis as a novel tool in plant breeding

Objective

Most crops are sexually propagating plants in which the embryo, encapsulated in a seed is formed as a result of a fertilization event. For the embryo and the seed to develop normally, a second fertilization event-giving rise to the endosperm is required. In contrast, apomictic plants reproduce asexually by means of seeds. In all cases of apomixis, through the avoidance of meiosis and fertilisation, the offspring is genetically identical to that of the mother plant. Apomixis is widespread in plants, but not among crops. This project will compare sexual and apomictic pathways in model species and crops. In combination with functional tests and powerful assays it will shed light on the genetic control of apomixis. The project will provide the tools and technology necessary to harness individual elements of apomixis and to perform first functional tests in both model systems and crops.

Programme(s)

• FP5-LIFE QUALITY - Specific Programme for research, technological development and demonstration on "Quality of life and management of living resources", 1998-2002

Topic(s)

• 1.1.1.-8. - Research into genomes and diseases of genetic origin

Funding Scheme

CSC - Cost-sharing contracts

Coordinator

WAGENINGEN UNIVERSITY

Address

Arboretumlaan 4
6703 BD Wageningen
Netherlands

Participants (7)

ADVANTA SEEDS BV

Netherlands

Address

70,Dijkwelssetraat 70
4421 AJ Kapelle

DEUTSCHE SAATVEREDELUNG LIPPSTADT - BREMEN GMBH

Germany

Address

Weissenburger Strasse 5
59557 Lippstadt

INSTITUTE OF PLANT GENETICS AND CROP PLANT RESEARCH

Germany

Address

3,Corrensstrasse 3
06466 Gatersleben

Institute of Biological, Environmental and Rural Sciences

United Kingdom

Address

Gogerddan
SY23 3EB Aberystwyth, Ceredigion

NATIONAL RESEARCH COUNCIL OF ITALY

Italy

Address

Via Della Madonna Alta, 130
06128 Perugia

ROYAL NETHERLANDS ACADEMY OF ARTS AND SCIENCE

Netherlands

Address

6,Korringaweg 7
4401 NT Yerseke

UNIVERSITY OF ZURICH

Switzerland

Address

107,Zollikerstrasse 107
8008 Zurich