Scientists Solve Poppy Puzzle with New Gene Discovery

Scientists at the University of Birmingham have identified an elusive male gene in the field poppy that stops self-fertilization, a mechanism that prevents inbreeding, and promotes greater genetic diversity. Plant biologists had already uncovered that poppies prevent self-fertilization when a female gene on the stigma tells it which pollen to accept or reject, triggering several chemical signals to stop pollen tube growth. However, the corresponding "label" on pollen that allows recognition of "self" remained elusive. Now the team, funded by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council, have discovered the sought after male gene - PrpS - which specifies pollen recognition and so regulates self-incompatibility. This gene works with the female'S component that controls the pistil (the plant's female reproductive organ) to decide whether the flower can accept or reject pollen. This breakthrough may also provide a new way to produce F1 hybrid crops, which could be a major boost for plant breeders. Professor Noni Franklin-Tong of the School of Biosciences, said: "Finding this pollen component is a major breakthrough for us.