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Branching out: new insights into the genetic regulation of shoot architecture in trees

Branching out: new insights into the genetic regulation of shoot architecture in trees

Authors :
Joseph L. Hill
Courtney A. Hollender
Source :
Current Opinion in Plant Biology. 47:73-80
Publication Year :
2019
Publisher :
Elsevier BV, 2019.

Abstract

Directional growth in all plants involves both phototropic and gravitropic responses. Accordingly, mechanisms controlling shoot architecture throughout the plant kingdom are likely similar. However, as forms vary between species due in part to gene copy number and functional divergence, some aspects of how plants predetermine and regulate architecture can differ. This is especially true when comparing annual herbaceous species (e.g. model plants) to woody perennials such as trees. In the past decade, inexpensive genomic sequencing and technological advances enabled gene discovery and functional analyses in trees. This led to the identification of genes associated with tree shoot architecture control. Here, we present recent discoveries on the regulation of shoot architectures for which causative genes have been identified, including dwarf, weeping, columnar, and pillar growth habits. We also discuss potential applications of these findings.

Details

ISSN :
13695266
Volume :
47
Database :
OpenAIRE
Journal :
Current Opinion in Plant Biology
Accession number :
edsair.doi.dedup.....322909a86c0f18d67d7e1daa9ec20777
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pbi.2018.09.010