Somatic embryogenesis, however, is a rather inefficient process and the quality of embryos and plantlets can be poor. Improving the process requires an understanding of the process of embryogenesis in the natural state. Several hundred cDNAs have been cloned, sequenced, and compared to GenBank files. Similarities to many well characterized genes have been noted. In this way, we will be able to follow the appearance and disappearance of specific genes and construct testable hypotheses about the biochemical events occurring during embryogenesis.
Complementary work studies the regulation of specific genes in greater detail.
From these experiments, and experiments arising from them, we will be able to design better culturing protocols, better cultivation conditions, and thereby improve somatic embryogenesis. Post-transcriptional Regulation Drought is a perennial problem with grave consequences for agriculture and forestry. Plants activate defense and repair genes when growing under environmental stress such as drought, cold, or heat. The products of these genes alleviate the cellular effects of harsh growth conditions. To ensure appropriate expression each of these steps are regulated.