Gametogenesis in the Chlamydomonas reinhardtii minus mating type is controlled by two genes, MID and MTD1.

ABSTRACT: In the unicellular algae Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, the plus and minus mating types are controlled by a complex locus, MT, where the dominant MID gene in the MT(-) locus has been shown to be necessary for expression of minus-specific gamete-specific genes in response to nitrogen depletion. We report studies on MID expression patterns during gametogenesis and on a second gene unique to the MT(-) locus, MTD1. Vegetative cells express basal levels of MID. An early activation of MID transcription after nitrogen removal, and its sequence similarity to plant RWP-RK proteins involved in nitrogen-responsive processes, suggest that Mid conformation/activity may be nitrogen sensitive. A second stage of MID upregulation correlates with the acquisition of mating ability in minus gametes. Knockdown of

SUBMITTER: Lin H 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC1894618 | biostudies-literature | 2007 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature