Function characterization of an anther-specific DFR gene in Arabidopsis thaliana

Abstract

Previously it was estimated that approximately 3500 genes were expressed specifically within the Arabidopsis anther. Characterization of anther sterile mutants in molecular level not only provides insights into the regulation of male gametogenesis, but also offers potential applications to plant breeders. An Arabidopsis T-DNA mutant with an insertion within a gene encoding a homologue of dihydroflavonol reductase (DFR) was recently identified in our laboratory. Homozygous mutant plants are entirely devoid of mature pollen. Normal silique elongation fails to proceed and no seeds are produced. . Reciprocal crossings demonstrated that the mutant pistils were fertile. Reverse Transcriptase PCR (RT-PCR) revealed a significantly high level of the gene transcripts in flowers. Furthermore, transgenic Arabidopsis plants expressing a promoter::GUS construct demonstrated that the gene is anther-specific and is associated with tapetum development.