Abstract Detail

Developmental and Structural Section

Jaramillo, M. Alejandra [1].

The role of B-class genes in the development of Aristolochia perianth..

The calyx derived perianth of Aristolochia is unique in exhibiting several petaloid characteristics. This highly modified structure initiates as three distinct sepal primordia that later fuse to form a trumpet like structure very attractive to pollinators. While the perianth limb acts as the main pollinator attractant, the interior of the tube has a fine mechanism to trap and nourish the pollinator flies. These highly specialized pollination system involves a large variety of cell types in the interior of the perianth tube: rigid trichomes, glandular hairs, etc. In Aristolochia manshuriensis, a member of the basal clade Isotrema, B-class genes are expressed in the interior of perianth tube through the throat just before the limb opens, a region that is lined with papillated cells. Comparative expression studies are being carried out to examine the contribution of B-class genes in the production of a variety of cell types in the interior of the perianth. Homologs of APETALA3 and PISTILLATA, have been cloned from several species of Aristolochia. The molecular evolution of these homologs will be discussed. Expression data will be presented for some species of Aristolochia.

1 - Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Bioquimica Medica, Av. Bahuinia 400, CCS, bloco D, subssolo, sala 05, Cidade Universitaria, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21941 590, Brazil

Keywords:
MADS box genes
flower development
Aristolochia.

Presentation Type: Poster
Session: 32-18
Location: Special Event Center (Cliff Lodge)
Date: Tuesday, August 3rd, 2004
Time: 12:30 PM
Abstract ID:106