| abstract |
Provided is the tissue specific manipulation of the EIN2 and/or EIN3 ethylenesignaling genes, permitting the controlled regulation of flower and/or leaf abscission in a commercially useful plant, since flower and leaf abscission are positively regulated by the plant hormone ethylene. In particular, controlled expression of the EIN2 gene, permits reduction of early-season flower abscission. The altered expression of ethylene signaling gene(s) enhances the commercial value of the plant, thereby producing a more productive and/or more efficiently harvested crop. Further provided are new insights into the mechanisms involved in the ethylene signaling pathway. |