Genes of the most conserved WOX clade in plants affect root and flower development in Arabidopsis
2008

WOX Genes in Plants and Their Role in Root and Flower Development

publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Yves Deveaux, Claire Toffano-Nioche, Gaelle Claisse, Vincent Thareau, Halima Morin, Patrick Laufs, Hervé Moreau, Martin Kreis, Alain Lecharny

Primary Institution: Université Paris-Sud 11

Hypothesis

Members of the WOX13 orthologous group might preferentially share a significant part of their function in phylogenetically distant organisms.

Conclusion

The study provides evidence that the WOX13 orthologous group contains the most conserved WOX genes and links them to organ initiation and development in Arabidopsis.

Supporting Evidence

  • The WOX13 orthologous group contains the most conserved WOX proteins.
  • AtWOX13 is expressed during root initiation and development.
  • Mutations in AtWOX14 lead to abnormal root development and delayed floral transition.

Takeaway

This study shows that certain genes in plants help control how roots and flowers grow, making sure they develop properly.

Methodology

The study involved phylogenetic analysis, functional analysis using expression data, and mutant characterization in Arabidopsis thaliana.

Limitations

The phylogenetic analysis may be affected by long branch attraction and the limited number of characterized plant species.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1471-2148-8-291

Want to read the original?

Access the complete publication on the publisher's website

View Original Publication