A Conserved Mutation in an Ethylene Biosynthesis Enzyme Leads to Andromonoecy in Melons

• DOI: 10.1126/science.1159023
• Publication Date: 2008-08-07T20:34:33Z
• Authors: Adnane Boualem; Mohamed Fergany; Ronan Fernandez; Christelle Troadec; Antoine Martin; Halima Morin; Marie-Agnes Sari; Fabrice Collin; Jonathan M. Flowers; Michel Pitrat; Michael D. Purugg...; Catherine Dogimont; Abdelhafid Bendah...
• Keywords: Cloning (programming); Melon

Andromonoecy is a widespread sexual system in angiosperms characterized by plants carrying both male and bisexual flowers. In melon, this form controlled the identity of alleles at andromonoecious ( ) locus. Cloning gene reveals that andromonoecy results from mutation active site 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid synthase. Expression enzyme inhibits development organs not required for carpel development. A causal single-nucleotide polymorphism associated with was identified, which suggests allele has been under recent positive selection may be linked to evolution system.