Abstract Detail

Genetics Section

Lu, Li [1], Wilson, K G [1], Francko, D A [1].

The identification of CBF/DREB homologs in cold-hardy and cold-sensitive palms.

Cold is a major environmental limitation to the distribution and productivity of plants. In plants, the CBF genes play an important role in cold acclimation. They have been identified in many plant species, including Arabidopsis, Brassica napus, rye, wheat, rice, tomato, and etc. We report the identification of possible CBF homologs in a variety of palm genera (Rhapidophyllum, Sabal, Elaeis, Trachycarpus, Chrysalidocarpus, Ravenea, Attalea and Cocos). Although palms are predominantly tropical to subtropical plants, some of them show strong cold resistance. In field studies, Rhapidophyllum hystrix and Sabal palmetto can survive temperatures approaching -17°C with little or no foliar damage. To investigate the mechanism of this cold resistance, we cloned and sequenced CBF-like genes from both cold-hardy and cold-sensitive palms. Two CBF-like genes isolated from R. hystrix, the most cold-hardy palms in our studies, have been transformed into Arabidopsis to test their functions in cold tolerance. The possibility of applying our research to commercial palm production will be discussed.

1 - Miami University, Department of Botany, 316 Pearson Hall, Oxford, Ohio, 45056, USA

Keywords:
cold acclimation
cold-hardy
palms
CBF/DREB
cold-hardy palms.

Presentation Type: Poster
Session: 32-54
Location: Special Event Center (Cliff Lodge)
Date: Tuesday, August 3rd, 2004
Time: 12:30 PM
Abstract ID:336