Analysis of conserved microRNAs in floral tissues of sexual and apomictic Boechera species.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Apomixis or asexual seed formation represents a potentially important agronomic trait whose introduction into crop plants could be an effective way to fix and perpetuate a desirable genotype through successive seed generations. However, the gene regulatory pathways underlying apomixis remain unknown. In particular, the potential function of microRNAs, which are known to play crucial roles in many aspects of plant growth and development, remains to be determined with regards to the switch from sexual to apomictic reproduction.

Results

Using bioinformatics and microarray validation procedures, 51 miRNA families conserved among angiosperms were identified in Boechera. Microarray assay confirmed 15 of the miRNA families that were identified by bioinformatics technique

SUBMITTER: Amiteye S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3208272 | biostudies-literature | 2011 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature