Syllabus

Unique Features of Plant Development, Model Systems & Genetic Tools, The Start of Life (Gametogenesis to Embryogenesis), Alternation of Generations, Double Fertilization, Embryogenesis & Pattern Formation

The Root System (Hidden Half), The Root Apical Meristem (RAM), Root Organogenesis, The Shoot System (Vegetative Growth), The Shoot Apical Meristem (SAM), Phyllotaxy and Organ Initiation, Leaf Development

Module 3: The Reproductive Transition, Floral Induction Pathways, Floral Meristem Identity, Flower & Fruit Development, Floral Organ Patterning (The ABC Model), Gametophyte-Sporophyte Interactions, Fruit Development

Senescence and Environmental Plasticity, Senescence and Abscission, Photomorphogenesis

To understand the fundamental principles of plant developmental biology, distinguishing the unique properties of plant life cycles (alternation of generations) and the genetic tools used in model systems to study them.

To elucidate the molecular mechanisms governing the origin of life, including gametogenesis, the intricacies of double fertilization, and the establishment of the body plan during embryogenesis.

To analyze the dynamic function of meristems, specifically focusing on how the Root Apical Meristem (RAM) and Shoot Apical Meristem (SAM) maintain stem cell populations while driving organogenesis and phyllotaxy.

To interpret the genetic regulatory networks that control the reproductive transition, including the integration of environmental signals for flowering and the ABC model of floral organ patterning.

To evaluate plant plasticity and terminal developmental programs, examining how light signals (photomorphogenesis) shape development and the hormonal regulation of senescence and abscission.

Explain the genetic basis of the "ABC model" and predict the phenotypic consequences of homeotic mutations in floral development.

Compare and contrast the signaling pathways involved in the maintenance of the root vs. shoot apical meristems (e.g., WUS-CLV pathway).

Trace the developmental trajectory from a single zygote to a complex embryo, identifying the key signaling centers responsible for pattern formation.

Critically assess how environmental factors like light and stress alter developmental timing, leading to plasticity or induced senescence.

Lincoln Taiz, Eduardo Zeiger, Ian M. Møller, & Angus Murphy, 1. Plant Physiology and Development, Sinauer Associates, Inc , 1. Plant Physiology and Development (6th or 7th Ed.), Authors: Lincoln Taiz, Eduardo Zeiger, Ian M. Møller, & Angus Murphy. Sinauer Associates, Inc

Ray F. Evert, Esau's Plant Anatomy: Meristems, Cells, and Tissues of the Plant Body , Wiley , 1. Esau's Plant Anatomy: Meristems, Cells, and Tissues of the Plant Body by Ray F. Evert. Wiley