Exploiting the miniature inverted-repeat transposable elements insertion polymorphisms as an efficient DNA marker system for genome analysis and evolutionary studies in wheat and related species.

Transposable elements (TEs) constitute ~80% of the complex bread wheat genome and contribute significantly to wheat evolution and environmental adaptation. We studied 52 TE insertion polymorphism markers to ascertain their efficiency as a robust DNA marker system for genetic studies in wheat and related species. Significant variation was found in miniature inverted-repeat transposable element (MITE) insertions in relation to ploidy with the highest number of "full site" insertions occurring in the hexaploids (32.

The transcription factor TaMYB31 regulates the benzoxazinoid biosynthetic pathway in wheat.

Benzoxazinoids are specialized metabolites that are highly abundant in staple crops, such as maize and wheat. Although their biosynthesis has been studied for several decades, the regulatory mechanisms of the benzoxazinoid pathway remain unknown. Here, we report that the wheat transcription factor MYB31 functions as a regulator of benzoxazinoid biosynthesis genes.

The wheat dioxygenase BX6 is involved in the formation of benzoxazinoids in planta and contributes to plant defense against insect herbivores.

Benzoxazinoids are plant specialized metabolites with defense properties, highly abundant in wheat (Triticum), one of the world's most important crops. The goal of our study was to characterize dioxygenase BX6 genes in tetraploid and hexaploid wheat genotypes and to elucidate their effects on defense against herbivores. Phylogenetic analysis revealed four BX6 genes in the hexaploid wheat T.

Characterizing serotonin biosynthesis in Setaria viridis leaves and its effect on aphids.

A combined transcriptomic and metabolic analysis of Setaria viridis leaves responding to aphid infestation was used to identify genes related to serotonin biosynthesis. Setaria viridis (green foxtail), a short life-cycle C4 plant in the Poaceae family, is the wild ancestor of Setaria italica (foxtail millet), a resilient crop that provides good yields in dry and marginal land. Although S.