The long-term goals of this Seed Grant are to discover the molecular events of fertilization in flowering plants, specifically, to determine which molecules on sperm cell surfaces participate in events of recognition, adhesion, and fusion with the egg. From this research, eventually we will be able to identify the genes responsible for fertilization and then to engineer them in such a way as to promote or prohibit fertilization—to regulate fertility and sterility in plants. Plant sperm are embedded in pollen grains and move down growing pollen tubes. We will collect corn pollen and isolate plant sperm cells from it by gentle grinding. The sperm will be purified and used to immunize mice. Undergraduate students will screen the antibodies produced to determine which ones bind to sperm cell surfaces. Second, we will determine whether any of the antibodies that recognize sperm cell surfaces bind to only half the sperm and thus may be membrane components potentially responsible for double fertilization in flowering plants. Third, we will determine the molecular weight of the antigenic molecules from corn sperm cells. Undergraduate students will gain valuable insight into active research. By solving problems and assisting in attainment of project goals, they will gain experience in understanding the approach to research and in development of technical skills which will facilitate their development as scientists. USDA grant 1999-3588.
Return to Darlene
Southworth web page
Return to Department of
Biology Homepage
SOU HOME • ACADEMICS • CAMPUS COMMUNITY • SOU TODAY • FIND IT