Distinct MADS-box gene expression patterns in the reproductive cones of the gymnosperm Gnetum gnemon.
Expression patterns from in situ hybridization of four MADS-box genes (GGM7, GGM9, GGM11, and GGM15) from the gymnosperm species Gnetum gnemon are presented. Together with previously published data about putative orthologs of floral homeotic genes from G. gnemon (GGM2, GGM3, GGM13), we describe seven temporally and spatially distinct expression patterns in male, female or both types of reproductive units which very likely reflect the diversity of MADS-box gene function in gymnosperm cones. There is evidence that some aspects of the observed differential expression have been conserved since the last common ancestor of extant angiosperms and gymnosperms about 300 million years ago.
Becker
Annette
A
Department of Molecular Plant Genetics, Max-Planck-Institute for Breeding Research, Carl-von-Linné-Weg 10, 50829 Cologne, Germany.
Saedler
Heinz
H
Theissen
Günter
G
D015870:Gene Expression; D020869:Gene Expression Profiling; D005801:Genes, Homeobox; D017343:Genes, Plant; D035684:Gnetum / Q000235:genetics* / Q000254:growth & development / Q000378:metabolism; D017403:In Situ Hybridization; D026161:MADS Domain Proteins / Q000235:genetics*; D012098:Reproduction
D026161:MADS Domain Proteins