HRT 865: Plant Growth and Development

Course Code: HRT 865

Credits and Offerings

3 credits
Fall of even years (ARCHIVED AS OF FALL 2020)

Course Description

Genetics and molecular biology of development in higher plants as influenced by genes and environment. Biosynthesis, action and signal transduction of phytohormones and other signaling molecules. Initiation, formation and patterning of plant organs and cell types. Genetic variation underlying developmental diversity.

Course Objectives

Become familiar with general developmental mechanism and diversity of development among multicellular organisms
Review organization of plant tissues, organs and structures
Learn the architecture and characteristics of various plant cell types
Become more familiar with the structure and properties of various plant hormones and other signaling molecules
Understand the respective biosynthetic pathways for plant hormones, including key enzymes and intermediates
Understand routes of trafficking and movement of hormones and signaling molecules throughout the plant
Identify how plant hormones are perceived at target sites, and how a response is generated through activation of gene expression
Review key steps in symmetric and asymmetric cell division
Understand the mechanical and morphological aspects of plant cell growth
Understand how the abiotic environment influences plant development
Learn the genetic, molecular and morphological aspects of various developmental transitions, including:
- embryogenesis
- seed development
- seed dormancy and germination
- seedling development
- vegetative growth
- flowering and flower formation
- pollination
- fruit development
- fruit ripening
- fertilization