The secret of the greatest and most beautiful fruits is in the flower

2001/06/19 Galarraga Aiestaran, Ana - Elhuyar Zientzia

• Botanika
• Genetika
• Nekazaritza

Until recently, scientists did not know why all the flowers had that model, but Salk Institute biologist Detlef Weigel and his team have found a response. As published in Cell magazine, the flower model is based on a gene called WUSCHEL or WUS. This gene, previously known, is also essential in shoots that form stems and leaves.

Knowledge of the role of the gene has not only clarified the evolution of flowers, but can also have an application, as it can be used to obtain greater fruits. The fruits are formed in the middle of the flower, so changing the genes involved would achieve greater fruits in the middle of the flower.

In another work done by the Weigel team he identified the LEAFY gene. This gene is essential for the development of flowers and has the ability to transform shoots into flowers. This shows that flowers are variants of leaves. In addition, it can be applied in agriculture, as more fruits can be obtained.

Another important gene in flower development is: AGAMOUS. The three genes mentioned work together. The LEAFY gene separates flowers from shoots that will give stems and leaves. The WUS gene marks half the flower, but it is not directly related to the parts of the flower. Both jointly activate the AGAMOUS gene that encodes the reproductive organs.

On the other hand, researchers have discovered why stems and leaves grow over the years, while flowers only remain for a while. In fact, the AGAMOUS gene stops WUS in the late stages of flower development. A change in the balance between these two genes can result in a plant of continuous flowers or more hair. For example, the tomato with more hair gives more fruit.

Knowing which genes are involved in the formation of flowers and their function, production is expected to increase. It is possible that in the future you can get plants that bring more and more fruits.