UGA Scientists Discover Gene Responsible for Dwarfing of Pearl Millet
April 3, 2013| |
University of Georgia (UGA) geneticists reported the successful isolation of the gene responsible for dwarfing trait of pearl millet varieties. According to Katrien Devos, leader of the study, the gene discovery will help plant breeders develop more efficient, sustainable varieties of semi-dwarf pearl millet which are desirable for some farmers and ranchers.
The researchers developed markers that can be used by breeders to screen for the presence of the gene even the before the gene is visually expressed. The gene affects the downward transport of the growth hormone auxin which is produced in the upper part of the plant. If the gene is activated, the hormone flows freely, allowing growth of the plant up to its full height, which is about 10ft. When the gene is turned off, the plant may only grow up to 3-5ft.
The study was published in the March issue of G3:Genes, Genomics, Genetics. Read the media release of UGA at http://news.uga.edu/releases/article/researchers-track-down-gene-responsible-short-stature-dwarf-pearl-mill/.
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