Next SOL Seminar Online will be presented by Margaret Frank on Finding a Sol mate: molecular basis for graft-compatible combinations in the Solanaceae
Abstract. Grafting is a widely-used technique that involves physically joining independent genotypes into a single plant in order to capture new, agriculturally beneficial phenotypes, such as optimized plant architecture, enhanced abiotic and biotic stress tolerance, altered reproductive timing, and increased yield. Graft-compatibility, the ability for two genotypes to unite through the formation of xylem and phloem connections, is essential for the discovery and establishment of new graft combinations. Although graft technology has been around for over two millennia, the factors that determine graft-compatible versus incompatible combinations remain poorly understood. To gain insight into the molecular and genetic basis for graft-compatibility, and enable the predictive selection of beneficial graft combinations, we tested the compatibility of domesticated tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) with other model species within the Solanaceae (e.g. potato, eggplant, pepper, Nicotiana benthemiana, tobacco, and petunia). This screen led to the identification of Pepmato and Tomepper, a reciprocal graft combination between tomato and pepper that exhibits consistent graft-failure. Interestingly, pepper-tomato graft combinations are capable of surviving, but fail to form functional vascular connections, making this an excellent model system to explore the molecular basis for intercellular communication during vascular regeneration in grafted plants. In this presentation, we track anatomical, physiological, and molecular changes that track graft junction failure in pepmato and tomepper. Ultimately, this work will contribute towards a deeper understanding of how graft compatibility is determined, which can enable the application of predictive genotypic graft combinations.
When? Friday 16th October 4 pm (GMT+1)
The zoom link to join the meeting is https://cuboulder.zoom.us/j/94333146166 Meeting ID: 943 3314 6166, password: Solanaceae
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