Agrigenesis Biosciences Limited

University of California

Erika Varkonyi-Gasic

Tony James Lough

Ilkka Havukkala

Byung-Chun Yoo

Helene Belanger

William J Lucas

Keith Hudson

Richard L S Forster

Dieter H Hermsmeier

Justin Sweetman

The present invention provides a polynucleotide sequence encoding a component of the protein machinery involved in small RNA trafficking,phloem small RNA-binding protein (CmPSRB 1), and the corresponding polypeptide sequence. The invention also provides genetic constructs and transgenic plants comprising the polynucleotide sequence encoding a phloem small RNA-binding protein to alter (e.g., prevent, reduce or elevate) non-cell autonomous signaling events in the plants involving small RNA metabolism. These signaling events are involved in a broad spectrum of plant physiological and biochemical processes, including, for example, systemic resistance to pathogens, responses to environmental stresses, e.g., heat, drought, salinity, and systemic gene silencing (e.g., viral infections).

Nucleic acids encoding phloem small RNA-binding proteins and transgenic plants comprising them

The present application discloses plant polynucleotides, their encoded polypeptide sequences, and sRNA sequences which are putative regulators of long-distance florigenic signaling and flowering control. Methods of using these sequences related to long-distance florigenic signalling, including modifying the occurrence, timing and extent of flower development by modulating the florigenic signaling pathway, are also disclosed.

Control of floral induction

Growing community of inventors

Auckland, New Zealand

Erika Varkonyi-Gasic