Abstract
In recessive bop1/bop2 double mutant of arabidopsis, leaf growth continues much longer period than in wild type. Thus, BOP1 and BOP2 genes (BOPs) appear to be required for determinate leaf development in arabidopsis. Similar indeterminacy is observed in leaves of genus Monophyllaea (Gesneriaceae). Therefore, we are examining if indeterminate leaf growth of Monophyllaea glabra could be attributable to deficiency of the BOP gene. First, we isolated two homologs (MgBOPs) and revealed that both MgBOPs could functionally complement the bop1/bop2 mutations. Then, RT-PCR analysis revealed that expression patterns of MgBOPs resembled that of the BOPs in arabidopsis. Now, we are conducting analysis to reveal the spatio-temporal expression patterns of MgBOPs. We are also examining structure of leaf blade, SAM and boundary region of those tissues of M. glabra by using some molecular markers. Based on those results, we will discuss mechanisms responsible for indeterminate leaf growth of M. glabra.
