| abstract |
The present invention relates to a novel gene (the "ran 1" gene), identified in Arabidopsis, encoding an early-acting regulator in the ethylene gas signaling pathway, and to antagonist responsive mutants controlling copper transport in the plant. It further relates to the manipulation of the ran1 o r the protein expression product of the gene to modulate the ethylene response in plants, thereby permitting the regulation and controlled alteration of a variety of plant growth and developmental processes, including germination, cell elongation, flower and leaf senescence, abcission, fruit ripening and insect resistance. |