DNA-binding properties of alfalfa MADS-box proteins and identification of a new family member expressed in the root nodule

Michal Caspi, Boston College

Abstract

The root nodule is a highly differentiated organ where bacterial nitrogen fixation takes place. NMHC5 and NMH7, two putative transcription factors of the MADS-box family are thought to be involved in the regulation of alfalfa nodule differentiation. The DNA-binding ability of NMHC5 and NMH7 was investigated using mobility shift assays. NMHC5 was found to bind a specific DNA sequence as a homodimer. NMH7 was unable to interact with DNA in vitro, which is consistent with its secondary structure and predictions of heterodimeric binding. The second part of this study describes the isolation and sequence analysis of two related genes ngl-6 and ngl-9, encoding potential heterodimer partners for NMH7.

Recommended Citation

Michal Caspi, "DNA-binding properties of alfalfa MADS-box proteins and identification of a new family member expressed in the root nodule" (January 1, 1997). Boston College Dissertations and Theses. Paper AAI1385458.
http://escholarship.bc.edu/dissertations/AAI1385458