Skip to main content
Go to the home page of the European Commission (opens in new window)
English en
CORDIS - EU research results
CORDIS
Content archived on 2024-06-10

Mechanisms governing homeobox gene activity in the model cereal rice

Objective



Research objectives and content
The host institution (Institute of Molecular Plant Sciences, Leiden University) studies the molecular basis of plant embryogenesis and morphogenesis in the model cereal rice. Its research efforts are currently focused on homeobox genes which encode transcription factors well known for their function in animals as molecular switches of developmental decisions resulting in determination of body plans and cell fates. Accumulating evidence also points to a pivotal role for homeobox genes in plant development, but their precise functions remain still poorly understood. A rice homeobox gene (Oshoxl) of the HD-ZIP type was identified that is expressed from early stages of embryogenesis onwards. This proposal aims at studying several aspects of regulation of this gene and control of the activity of its product. Subjects to be investigated include: subcellular localization and cell-to-cell trafficking of Oshox1 protein, expression of Oshoxl during development and in response to internal and external signals, autocontrol of Oshoxl expression, and transcription factors regulating Oshoxl expression. The planned studies will contribute to an understanding of the molecular mechanisms directing embryogenesis and morphogenesis, a central theme in plant biology. Training content (objective, benefit and expected impact)
The training is meant to result in a PhdD thesis based on three to four publications in well-established scientific journals. A Dutch PhD degree will provide an excellent basis for a further scientific career. Links with industry / industrial relevance (22)
The host institute participates in the European Plant Embryogenesis Network of the EU (programme: Molecular Control of Ovule Development and Early Embryogenesis; coordinator: dr. G.C. Angenent). Utilizable results will be licensed and commercialised by three participating industrial partners (S|dwestdeutsche Saatzucht Dr. H.R. Spdth, DE; Advanced Technologies Ltd, GB; Koninklijke Van der Have Groep BV, NL)

Fields of science (EuroSciVoc)

Programme(s)

Topic(s)

Call for proposal

Data not available

Funding Scheme

RGI - Research grants (individual fellowships)

Coordinator

LEIDEN UNIVERSITY
EU contribution
No data
Address
64,Wassenaarseweg 64, Al Leiden 2333
2300 RA LEIDEN
Netherlands
Total cost
No data

Participants (1)