Scientists solve poppy puzzle with new gene discovery
Sunday, May 31, 2009 - 12:21
in Biology & Nature
Scientists at the University of Birmingham have identified an elusive male gene in the field poppy that stops self - fertilisation, a mechanism that prevents inbreeding, and promotes greater genetic diversity. Plant biologists had already uncovered that poppies prevent self-fertilisation when a female gene on the stigma tells it which pollen to accept or reject, triggering several chemical signals to stop pollen tube growth. However, the corresponding 'label' on pollen that allows recognition of 'self' remained elusive...
