A more global understanding of how gene expression is regulated in abscission zones and distal tissues abscising in response to water stress will be obtained using tools of functional genomics. Analysis of differential gene expression within microarrays that can contain thousands of DNA sequences requires high-throughput robotic technologies and the utilization of fluorescent probes. Analysis of smaller target populations using macroarrays is conducted manually via the use of filter discs challenged with radioactive probes. In the future, the microarray will be used for such objectives as providing a target for RNAs isolated from tissues subjected to different environmental stress treatments in efforts to determine common and unique determinants of specific stress responses. Role in fruit abscission and dehiscence processes.
Intact leaves exhibit a climacteric-like rise in ethylene production before abscission.
Ethylene Responsive Floral Organ Abscission in Arabidopsis-Thaliana. Genetic and physiological characterization of floral organ abscission in Arabidopsis thaliana.