Dissection of nodule and lateral root development in the model legume Lotus japonicus. (2002-2004)

We propose to isolate and decipher the function of plant genes involved in nodule development, with the view to extend and compare this knowledge to lateral root formation. While nodulation and lateral root formation are distinct processes, they appear to share anatomical and biochemical features. Working hypothesis is that nodule formation borrowed functions from lateral root development. Our approach implements T-DNA and transposon insertional mutagenesis in the model legume Lotus japonicus. The success of this project will contribute significantly to the studies of plant-microbe interaction and plant morphogenesis.''