Increased copy number at the HvFT1 locus is associated with accelerated flowering time in barley

• DOI: 10.1007/s00438-013-0746-8
• Publication Date: 2013-04-16T15:32:40Z
• Authors: Rebecca Nitcher; Assaf Distelfeld; ChorTee Tan; Liuling Yan; Jorge Dubcovsky
• Keywords: Vernalization; Epistasis; Flowering Locus C; Habit; Hordeum

A precise regulation of flowering time is critical for plant reproductive success, and therefore, a better understanding the natural variation in genes regulating initiation phase required to develop well-adapted varieties. In both monocot dicot species, FLOWERING LOCUS T (FT) central integrator seasonal signals perceived by leaves. The encoded mobile protein (florigen) transmitted apical meristem where it induces flowering. FT homolog barley (Hordeum vulgare L.), designated HvFT1, was shown correspond vernalization locus VRN-H3, alleles spring winter growth habit were identified. this study, we demonstrate that HvFT1 allele present genetic stock (BGS213) associated with dominant carries at least four identical copies whereas most varieties have single copy. Increased copy number earlier transcriptional up-regulation habit. This epistatic VRN-H1 VRN-H2. Among accessions one copy, haplotype differences promoter first intron are also time, which modulated background. These different can be used adapted or changing environments. Our results, together studies other wheat genes, show plays an important role developmental processes temperate cereals.