The BABY BOOM Code

Plant embryogenesis is controlled by gene networks that regulate cell division, differentiation, and identity. BABY BOOM (BBM) is an important regulator that can trigger embryo formation in cells that would not normally develop into embryos.
This thesis investigates how BBM expression is regulated and how gene expression changes following BBM activation. Using Arabidopsis thaliana, we identified a conserved DNA sequence in the 5’ untranslated region of BBM that is important for its expression and normal embryo development. We also investigated RKD1 and RKD2 as potential BBM regulators and found that disrupting both genes causes embryo development defects and can produce haploid offspring, suggesting a role in preventing embryo development without fertilization. Finally, BBM activation triggered progressive changes in gene expression, including the activation of embryo-related genes, and revealed an unexpected role for a secondary metabolic pathway in plant regeneration.
These findings advance our understanding of the genetic regulation of plant embryogenesis.