Mutations in an AP2 transcription factor-like gene affect internode length and leaf shape in maize.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Plant height is an important agronomic trait that affects yield and tolerance to certain abiotic stresses. Understanding the genetic control of plant height is important for elucidating the regulation of maize development and has practical implications for trait improvement in plant breeding.

Methodology/principal findings

In this study, two independent, semi-dwarf maize EMS mutants, referred to as dwarf & irregular leaf (dil1), were isolated and confirmed to be allelic. In comparison to wild type plants, the mutant plants have shorter internodes, shorter, wider and wrinkled leaves, as well as smaller leaf angles. Cytological analysis indicated that the leaf epidermal cells and internode parenchyma cells are irregular in shape and are arranged in a more random fas

SUBMITTER: Jiang F 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3359370 | biostudies-literature | 2012

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature