Gene Expression in Cotton Stems and Roots Related to Carbohydrate Metabolism
Author Information
Author(s): Earl W Taliercio, Gabriela Romano, Jodi Scheffler, Brian G Ayre
Primary Institution: USDA/ARS
Hypothesis
The study aims to identify genes and physiological pathways that establish cotton stems and roots as physiological sinks and investigate their role in cotton development during seed set.
Conclusion
In domesticated cotton, starch stored prior to flowering supports seed production, and a suite of genes associated with starch biosynthesis was identified.
Supporting Evidence
- Starch levels peaked at first anthesis and then declined in field-grown cotton plants.
- Increased expression of genes associated with starch synthesis and degradation was observed.
- The study confirmed changes in soluble sugars in selected tissues.
Takeaway
This study found that cotton plants store starch in their stems and roots, which helps them grow seeds. Scientists looked at the genes that help make and use this starch.
Methodology
The study used microarray analyses and quantitative-PCR to compare gene expression in cotton stems and roots at different stages of starch accumulation.
Potential Biases
The microarray data may not fully represent all stages of starch accumulation, potentially skewing results.
Limitations
The study may have a bias against genes up-regulated in low starch samples due to underrepresentation on the microarray.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.023
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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