Cold & Heat Tolerance

Most of the biochemical reactions that occur in plant cells are controlled by enzymes which work most efficiently within a moderate temperature range. Thus, under low or high temperatures, both metabolism and growth slow down. Mendel has identified a selection of genes that enhance the performance of plants outside of normal temperature ranges. We anticipate that such technologies will become ever more important as global temperatures become more variable. We have identified certain transcription factors that protect the plant under hot conditions and others that allow the plant to maintain its growth rate in the cold. Of particular interest are group of transcription factors that improve the germination efficiency of seeds in cold conditions. These genes can be applied to increase crop yield in regions with short growing seasons by allowing earlier planting. Increased efficiency in germination and seedling establishment also reduces seed costs by obviating the need for higher sowing density.