Flower Structure

Control of Flower Structure

In addition to transcription factor regulated gene networks that control when the plant switches to a reproductive phase of its lifecycle, we have also discovered transcription factors that regulate the growth and form of the floral organs themselves. Such technology is of use in enhancing the ornamental value of flowers. We have also identified transcription factors that control the production of male sex organs and pollen; this know-how has important applications in Mendel's internal breeding programs to develop novel elite varieties of perennial grasses as biofuel feedstocks.