Microarray Analysis of Gene Expression Controlled by Transcription Factors Regulating Seed Development

Abstract

In Arabidopsis, Lec1, Lec2, Fus3 and ABI3 have been cloned as transcription factors to control seed development. Especially, Fus3 and ABI3 play important roles during mid- and late embryogenesis. Although it is believed that these transcription factors control the gene expression during seed development coordinately, it has not been clearly understood its molecular mechanisms. We have been conducting DNA microarray analysis to examine gene expression controlled by these transcription factors. When the transgenic Arabidopsis containing FUS3 gene with glucocorticoid inducing promoter was treated with DEX and ABA, expression levels of several hundreds of genes were changed to compare those of vector only control transgenic plants. It was observed that genes such as involved in accumulation of storage proteins or lipids and ABA synthesis, various transporters and transcription factors responsible for developmental control were upregulated.