Cookies on this website

We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you click 'Accept all cookies' we'll assume that you are happy to receive all cookies and you won't see this message again. If you click 'Reject all non-essential cookies' only necessary cookies providing core functionality such as security, network management, and accessibility will be enabled. Click 'Find out more' for information on how to change your cookie settings.

Embryogenesis is a phase of development that has been understudied at the molecular level, especially in conifers. Somatic embryogenesis, the asexual propagation of embryos, provides insights into development and has major applications in the forestry industry. Loblolly pine is the most important commercial species in the United States; however, it is recalcitrant to somatic embryogenesis methods. An appreciation of gene expression and the development of 'expression markers' would allow us to follow conifer embryogenesis more closely and to gain some insight into the metabolic states of zygotic and somatic embryos. We have employed the techniques of differential display to identify genes whose mRNA abundance changes over the course of development. We have isolated around 500 cDNAs and propose the establishment of a database of transcript levels in somatic and zygotic pine embryos over the course of development using cDNA arrays. Approximately one-third of our cDNAs have similarity to sequences in the Genbank. Our intention is to gain insight into cell physiology and biochemistry by identifying inducible transcripts. This information will form the basis of testable hypotheses regarding manipulation of embryo development in tissue culture. Experiments deriving from transcript profiling will provide insight into development. The 'expression markers' will allow a classification system more closely tied to metabolic state and the integration of these data into ongoing physiological research will lead to improved protocols for somatic embryogenesis.

Original publication

DOI

10.1007/s11627-000-0031-5

Type

Journal article

Journal

In Vitro Cellular and Developmental Biology - Plant

Publication Date

01/01/2000

Volume

36

Pages

155 - 162