Abstract Detail

Comparative Genomics/Transcriptomics

Carey, Shane [1], Hall, Jocelyn [2].

Elucidating Floral Nectary Development in Cleomaceae Using Histology and Transcriptomics.

Pollinator interactions may greatly influence floral evolution, especially traits relevant to those interactions. Whereas the genetic bases of many floral features are well understood, e.g., symmetry and organ identity, the underlying variation of other pollinator-mediated traits is an untapped area of research. For example, nectaries provide essential pollinator reward and serve in pollinator attraction, but relatively little is known about the genetic pathways controlling their development. Cleomaceae is an ideal group for investigating evolution and development in flower morphology, because it is home to a diverse range of flower colors, sizes, and variations in gland shape and structure. Further, a strong phylogenetic hypothesis for the family complements growing omics and comparative developmental data across clades. Finally, the sister relationship to Brassicaceae provides an opportunity to leverage a wealth of knowledge from Arabidopsis. Here, we focus on the basis of nectary development in Cleome violacea, as this species has a prominent adaxial nectary that likely serves in pollinator attraction. Moreover, it is amenable to reverse genetic techniques, and has a fast generation time and small size which facilitates its study in the lab. We present a detailed developmental series of nectary development in Cleome violacea. These data are critical to the interpretation of the RNA-seq transcriptomic library we have assembled, because it will elucidate potential key genes in nectary development.

1 - University of Alberta, Biological Sciences, CW 405 Biological Sciences Building, Edmonton, AB, T6G2E9, Canada
2 - University Of Alberta, CW405 Biological Sciences, Edmonton, AB, T6G 2E9, Canada

Keywords:
Cleomaceae
transcriptomics
histology
Nectary.

Presentation Type: Oral Paper
Session: 21, Comparative Genomics and Transcriptomics I
Location: 102/Mayo Civic Center
Date: Tuesday, July 24th, 2018
Time: 8:45 AM
Number: 21004
Abstract ID:803
Candidate for Awards:Margaret Menzel Award