Trans-Repression of Gene Activity Upstream of T-DNA Tagged RLK902 Links Arabidopsis Root Growth Inhibition and Downy Mildew Resistance
2011

Linking Root Growth Inhibition and Downy Mildew Resistance in Arabidopsis

Sample size: 69 publication 10 minutes Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Colette A. ten Hove, Mark de Jong, Dmitry Lapin, Annemiek Andel, Gabino F. Sanchez-Perez, Yoshiaki Tarutani, Yoshihito Suzuki, Renze Heidstra, Guido van den Ackerveken

Primary Institution: Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands

Hypothesis

Does the T-DNA tagged RLK902 gene link root growth inhibition to downy mildew resistance in Arabidopsis?

Conclusion

The study found that the T-DNA insertion in RLK902 is linked to reduced root growth and resistance to downy mildew, but the gene itself is not required for these traits.

Supporting Evidence

  • Microarray studies showed downregulation of gene expression spanning a region of approximately 84 kb upstream of the mutated gene.
  • rlk902 mutants displayed reduced root growth and resistance to downy mildew.
  • Complementation of the rlk902 mutant did not restore root growth or susceptibility to downy mildew.

Takeaway

Scientists studied a plant gene that affects how roots grow and how plants resist a certain disease, finding that a specific mutation caused both problems.

Methodology

The researchers screened homozygous T-DNA insertion lines and performed microarray studies to assess gene expression.

Limitations

The study did not identify the specific gene responsible for the observed phenotypes despite extensive analysis.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p=0.77

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1371/journal.pone.0019028

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