Inter-organ modulation of gene regulatory networks in plants: the example of the CUP-SHAPED COTYLEDON genes – Imogen

The CUP-SHAPED COTYLEDON (CUC) transcription factors are evolutionarily conserved key players directing growth and patterning during aerial plant organ development. However, the cellular and molecular mechanisms underpinning these developmental roles remain largely elusive. Our preliminary data point to additional, not yet characterized, multiple roles of the CUC genes during root development, which are apparently different from those they have in the aerial part. This raises the question whether the CUC genes have multiple roles or a unique, yet-to-identify fundamental function which may be modulated by the developmental context. The first objective of this project is to characterize the roles of the CUC genes during Arabidopsis root development. The second objective is to establish the CUC gene regulatory network (GRN) and determine its possible modulation by the developmental context. The third objective is to determine to what extent the apparently diverse developmental roles of the CUC genes may in fact hide a unique still-to-identify fundamental role. Together, this project will not only shed light on the roles of a group of central regulators of plant development, but will also provide insight into the malleability of GRNs between plant organs.