Award details

Control of early embryogenesis by extra-embryonic peptides

Reference	BB/L003023/1
Principal Investigator / Supervisor	Professor Jose Gutierrez-Marcos
Co-Investigators / Co-Supervisors
Institution	University of Warwick
Department	School of Life Sciences
Funding type	Research
Value (£)	446,972
Status	Completed
Type	Research Grant
Start date	27/01/2014
End date	30/06/2017
Duration	41 months

Abstract

Asymmetric division is integral to plants and animals as it creates pattern and diversity. In plants, asymmetric division is critical in zygotes as it establishes the apical-basal axis and drives embryo patterning at the earliest stage. However, the precise mechanism that regulates this process remains unknown. This proposal will address this significant gap in our knowledge by elucidating the molecular components of a newly identified cell signaling pathway required for correct embryogenesis, which integrates signals derived from the surrounding extra-embryonic tissues. In addition, using genetic and molecular analyses we will uncover the genetic framework that regulates early embryogenesis. Collectively, this work will for the first time provide molecular-genetic and biochemical evidence for embryo surrounding tissues in regulating asymmetric division of the zygote and subsequent embryo patterning in plants.

Summary

Like animals, plants use asymmetric cell divisions to create pattern and diversity. However, how plants specify and carry out asymmetric divisions is not yet understood. This proposal focuses on uncovering the role of intercellular communication as a mechanism driving asymmetric division of the zygote in plants. We have uncovered a group of peptides expressed in embryo surrounding cells that regulate the early divisions of the zygote. We will use these findings to identify novel components to the network of genes and proteins that are involved in regulating early embryo development and patterning. Through this work we will uncover the molecular processes that allow surrounding tissues to coordinate the development of plant embryos.

Impact Summary

Data and material generated from this proposal will be made freely available. In addition, the University of Warwick will exploit IP generated through other aspects of the works. We will engage with industrial beneficiaries with regards to the improvement of seed traits through existing collaborations with two agrobiotechnology partners. We will disseminate our findings by making our data publicly available through peer-reviewed publications. The resources will be deposit at EMBL-EBI, BMRB and NASC. Training in scientific research skills will be provided to the RPDA, RA by the PI, colleagues at the University of Warwick and by existing collaborations with international researchers. We will disseminate our results to the public through media reports and by interacting directly with the public and plant breeders. Pathways to impact will be monitored and evaluated every six months.

Committee	Research Committee B (Plants, microbes, food & sustainability)
Research Topics	Plant Science
Research Priority	X – Research Priority information not available
Research Initiative	X - not in an Initiative
Funding Scheme	X – not Funded via a specific Funding Scheme

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