Rice Gene Machine Genome Project
The Project:
This project addresses the post-genome sequencing task for rice - understanding the function of each rice gene (Rice Functional Genomics). A library of insertional mutants created by disrupting (tagging) rice genes (Rice Gene Machine) is being built using the two component Ac/Ds transposon system, and insertion lines are being phenotyped. Using insertional mutants, genes controlling plant growth and development are being identified. Collaborations are being developed with national and international laboratories to expand the use of the Rice Gene Machine. We are now concentrating on identifying genes controlling seedling vigour i.e. early crop establishment. Through this project CSIRO is a member of the International Rice Functional Genomics Consortium.
CSIRO Rice Functional Genomics Project Homepage
Figure.1. Mutants used in identification of three rice
genes – (A) ent-kaurene synthase
(OsKS1), (B) ANTHER INDEHISCENCE 1
(AID1) and (C) BRANCHED FLORETLESS 1
(BFL1)
Goal/Deliverables:
- Produce rice insertion lines as a core component of the
Rice (Cereal) Gene Machine
- Isolate sequences flanking the insertions (FST)
- Phenotype insertion lines
- Develop database and bioinformatics tools for the Rice
Gene Machine
- Develop national and international linkages to expand the
Rice Gene Machine
- Identify genes of agronomic importance such as seedling
vigour and starch quality
Why sequence/study the genome?
A major challenge in the post genomic era is
the identification of the functions of the predicted 50,000
plant genes. Mutants offer one way to relate a gene to its
function. We are using rice as a model for other cereals
because of its small genome, ease of transformation and
because it is the focus of international genome studies.
Using insertional mutants it is possible to uncover regions
of the genome controlling or enhancing the expression of
genes determining developmental processes, productivity and
quality, as well as identifying genes per se. Such
discoveries will allow us to define targets that can be
studied further in major Australian crops (such as wheat)
because of the existence of synteny among cereals.
What is the benefit to Australia?
With CSIRO’s Rice Gene Machine,
Australia is now a part of the international effort with a
mission "to exploit the revolution in plant genomics by
understanding the function of all plant genes". The
economic contribution of the Rice Gene Machine will come
when research groups exploit useful genes and gene control
sequences either in transformation breeding or use them as
molecular markers in classical breeding. Because of great
similarities in gene sequence, gene structure, gene order
and gene function among all cereals and grasses,
understanding rice genes will greatly facilitate
understanding genes from other cereals.
The Cost:
Currently this project has an annual budget
of $500,000 drawn from CSIRO, NSW Agricultural Genomics
Centre and Rural Industries Research and Development
Corporation (RIRDC).
Narayana M. Upadhyaya
PHONE: 61-2-6246 5491
FAX: 61-2-6246 5000
EMAIL: narayana.upadhyaya@csiro.au
WEB: http://www.pi.csiro.au/fgrttpub
Elizabeth S. Dennis
PHONE: 61-2-6246 5061
FAX: 61-2-6246 5000
EMAIL: liz.dennis@csiro.au
WEB: http://www.pi.csiro.au/fgrttpub
