Trans-generational environmental signalling in plants and the maternal control of progeny properties

Abstract: The mother plays a key role in determining progeny seed properties in plants, using information from her own environmental experience. In this presentation I will introduce the topic, discuss the basic mechanisms of seasonal sensing and how these overlap with those which control other seasonal responses in plants such as the transition to flowering. Finally, I will explore that these maternal processes have major impacts on crop yield responses to weather and climate, with a focus on work with oilseed rape.

Host: Andrea Harper