28th Annual Student Research Conference
Reverse Genetic Analysis of the Rpb4 Gene in Arabidopsis
Jordyn M. Williams
Dr. Brent Buckner and Dr. Diane Janick-Buckner, Faculty Mentors
Rpb4, a subunit of RNA Polymerase II, is a highly conserved protein throughout all eukaryotes. There have been some studies in yeast that suggest that Rpb4 has a dual function in post-transcriptional regulation that is evidenced under stress. In a reverse genetic analysis of Rpb4 in T-DNA mutagenized Arabidopsis thaliana, we identified a mutant exhibiting small, crinkled leaves, stunted overall development, and reproductive sterility. Furthermore, the progeny of self-pollinated heterozygotes do not segregate in a Mendelian 3:1 ratio suggesting that this mutant exhibits embryo lethality. Interestingly, a mutation in the maize ortholog of Rpb4 produces a narrow, upward-rolling leaf that is similar to the crinkled leaf seen in Arabidopsis. These mutant phenotypes could indicate that Rpb4 has a role in plant development.
Keywords: Rpb4, reverse genetics, Arabidopsis, leaf development
Topic(s):Biology
Presentation Type: Poster
Session: 3-10
Location: GEO-SUB
Time: 3:30