Genetic Enhancer Screen to Identify Red Light Hypersensitive Mutants in the Model Plant Species Arabidopsis thaliana

Abstract

A plant's ability to perceive and respond to both quantity and quality of light is an essential component of maintaining healthy growth and development. One way in which plants respond to changing light conditions is via their perception of varying amounts of red (~660nm) and far red (~730nm) wavelengths of light. To do this, plants rely on a group of photoreceptors known as phytochromes (PHYs). This study found that the two genes Light Regulating BTB 1 (LRB1) and Light Regulating BTB 2 (LRB2) participate in the red light signaling pathway in Arabidopsis. Plants with mutations in these genes are red light hypersensitive and thus display an enhanced de-etiolation response and have significant shade tolerance. In order to determine other components, genes, or factors involved in the red light response pathway, this study conducted a series of genetic enhancer screens to identify mutations which exacerbate (or enhance) the phenotypic characteristics of the lrb1/lrb2 double mutants.