Project Number: 3640-21000-028-00
Project Type: Appropriated

Start Date: Oct 01, 2010
End Date: Dec 13, 2013

Objective:
Objective 1: Use discoveries from Medicago truncatula, a model legume, root and root nodule genomics to characterize and improve the biological efficiency of symbiotic nitrogen (N2) fixation in alfalfa. Objective 2: Develop and employ RNA interference (i) -mediated gene silencing to identify the functional role of genes involved in phosphorus and nitrogen acquisition and metabolism in root tissues of legumes such as common bean, pea, and lentil. Objective 3: Determine genes regulating protein and oil accumulation in soybean through whole genome transcript analysis and functionally characterize gene candidates.

Approach:
Alfalfa genes important in nitrogen fixation will be identified from the Medicago EST and genome sequencing projects. The sequence of 5'-promoter regions of selected genes will be identified from both alfalfa and M. truncatula. The expression of selected root nodule genes will be silenced through RNA interference. Nodules from plants containing RNA interference will be characterized for nitrogen fixation and nodule development. The Medicago truncatula gene chip will be used to assess global gene expression in alfalfa. BSL-1; Recertified May 19, 2011.