Researcher(s)
- Sofia Torres, Plant Science, University of Delaware
Faculty Mentor(s)
- Jingjing Tong, Plant and Soil Sciences, University of Delaware
Abstract
The plant cuticle is a hydrophobic layer that covers the above-ground surfaces of plants, acting as a physical barrier from the environment. It is primarily composed of cutin and cuticular wax. This layer serves several essential functions, including protection against heat, UV radiation, mechanical and chemical damage, and water loss through evaporation. Despite the plant cuticle’s many functions, the biosynthetic pathway remains largely unknown. To gain insight into this pathway, Yandeasu-Nelsons lab at Iowa State University selected candidate Zea Mays transcription factors (ZmTFs) for further characterization. This was achieved through transient gene expression using maize root protoplast. The genes were then prioritized based on their ability to activate one or more downstream genes. These genes will then be used for the gene characterization in Arabidopsis, which serves as the model plant due to its short generation time, small size, and adaptability. The candidate ZmTFs will be expressed in the roots through the use of a tissue-specific WEREWOLF promoter (pWER). This will assess whether a functioning cuticle can form in the root epidermis. Apart from the pWER, the destination vector will have two additional insertions. One of these is the Glucocorticoid receptor (GR) which will allow us to decide when the gene will be expressed. The other insertion is the gene of interest (ZmTFs). This recombinant DNA will be built via Gateway Cloning. Once successful, we can cultivate this recombinant DNA in Agrobacterium and use it to transfer T-DNA into the genome of Arabidopsis plants. This is done through a technique called floral dipping. This information is later organized to understand how plant cuticles are synthesized. We can use this information to engineer plants that can be better prepared for environmental stressors that come with changing climates.