Mitochondrial Molybdenum Transporter Controls Mo Content in Arabidopsis
Author Information
Author(s): Baxter Ivan, Muthukumar Balasubramaniam, Park Hyeong Cheol, Buchner Peter, Lahner Brett, Danku John, Zhao Keyan, Lee Joohyun, Hawkesford Malcolm J., Guerinot Mary Lou, Salt David E.
Primary Institution: Purdue University
Hypothesis
Natural variation in shoot Mo content across Arabidopsis thaliana accessions is controlled by a mitochondrial molybdenum transporter (MOT1).
Conclusion
The study identifies MOT1 as a key gene regulating molybdenum accumulation in Arabidopsis, with a specific deletion in its promoter linked to low Mo content.
Supporting Evidence
- MOT1 expression is reduced in low Mo accessions.
- A deletion in the MOT1 promoter is associated with low shoot Mo content.
- Reciprocal grafting shows that roots are responsible for low Mo accumulation in shoots.
- MOT1 enhances Mo accumulation in yeast by five-fold.
- Natural variation in Mo content is genetically controlled with broad sense heritability of 0.48.
Takeaway
Plants need molybdenum to grow, and this study found a gene that helps them get it from the soil. If this gene doesn't work well, the plants can't get enough molybdenum.
Methodology
The study used genetic mapping, reciprocal grafting experiments, and expression analysis to identify the role of MOT1 in molybdenum accumulation.
Limitations
The exact mechanism by which MOT1 regulates Mo accumulation in mitochondria remains to be established.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.0001
Statistical Significance
p<0.0001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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