Lessons from Cleomaceae, the Sister of Crucifers. (September 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Bayat, Soheila; Schranz, M. Eric; Roalson, Eric H.; Hall, Jocelyn C.
• Is Part Of: Trends in plant science. Volume 23:Number 9(2018)
• Page Start: 808
• Page End: 821
• Publication Date: 2018-09
• Subjects: Cleomaceae -- Brassicaceae -- C4 photosynthesis -- floral evolution -- whole-genome duplications; Botany -- Periodicals; Botanique -- Périodiques; Botany; Periodicals; 580.5
• DOI: 10.1016/j.tplants.2018.06.010
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1360-1385

Abstract

Abstract : Cleomaceae is a diverse group well-suited to addressing fundamental genomic and evolutionary questions as the sister group to Brassicaceae, facilitating transfer of knowledge from the model Arabidopsis thaliana . Phylogenetic and taxonomic revisions provide a framework for examining the evolution of substantive morphological and physiology diversity in Cleomaceae, but not necessarily in Brassicaceae. The investigation of both nested and contrasting whole-genome duplications (WGDs) between Cleomaceae and Brassicaceae allows comparisons of independently duplicated genes and investigation of whether they may be drivers of the observed innovations. Further, a wealth of outstanding genetic research has provided insight into how the important alternative carbon fixation pathway, C4 photosynthesis, has evolved via differential expression of a suite of genes, of which the underlying mechanisms are being elucidated. Highlights: As broadening the comparative landscape becomes increasingly important, Cleomaceae emerges as a valuable plant model for groundbreaking inquiries that reflect its genomic, morphological, and physiological diversity, especially when compared to sister family the Brassicaceae. Robust phylogenetic hypotheses are indispensable for providing an evolutionary comparative framework and structure needed for taxonomic revisions that impact on research ranging from genomics to physiology. A genome triplication is a potential driver of floral evolution as well as a powerful system in which to explore the consequences of increased genome size. Investigations in C4 photosynthesis are instrumental in untangling the origin and maintenance of this ecologically relevant trait. Remarkable floral diversity is an underutilized system to address the evolution of features associated with the important phenomenon of pollination.