To Prevent Inbreeding, Flowering Plants Have Evolved Multiple Genes, Research Reveals (3 of 3) (IMAGE)
Caption
This photo shows a close view of a Petunia flower's green pistil surrounded closely by white anthers. Scientists led by Teh-hui Kao at Penn State University have discovered a large suite of genes that prevent the petunia plant -- a species used by scientists to study flowering plants -- from breeding with itself or with its close relatives. Inbreeding affects many flowering plants -- including some commercially important crops -- in much the same way that human inbreeding sometimes results in genetic disease and inferior health. The discovery of multiple inbreeding-prevention genes is the latest result of Kao's quest to unravel the mystery of what he calls the plant's "non-self recognition system." The research will be published on Nov. 5, 2010 in the journal Science.
Credit
Ken-ichi Kubo
Usage Restrictions
The credit information must be published along with the image.
License
Licensed content