31st Annual Student Research Conference
Differential Expression of the Alfin Gene Family in Primary Root Zones in Maize Inbred Lines
Terra J. Willard
Dr. Diane Janick-Buckner and Dr. Brent Buckner, Faculty Mentors
The Alfin gene family, first described in Medicago sativa, encodes transcription factors involved in salt tolerance. All ALFIN proteins have a common domain structure, with an Alfin domain at the N-terminus and a zinc-finger DNA binding domain at their C-terminus. Our group has identified 16 Alfin gene family members in maize. Using the nomenclature described for Arabidopsis, our phylogenetic analysis separated the Alfin gene family members into three groups (Group I, II and III/IV). Using quantitative reverse transcriptase-PCR, we examined the expression of Alfin Group II members in B73, Mo17 and W22 5-day seedling primary roots. The primary roots were dissected into three fractions (root tip, elongation zone and root hair zone), and each fraction had RNA extracted and cDNA prepared separately. These analyses indicate that the Alfin Group II family members are differentially expressed among primary root zones, and among inbred maize lines.
Keywords: Maize, Alfin Genes, Gene Expression, Roots
Topic(s):Biology
Presentation Type: Oral Paper
Session: 108-4
Location: VH 1224
Time: 8:45