Abstract: Novel constructs are provided for expression of physiologically active mammalian proteins in plant cells, either in culture or under cultivation. The constructs provide a promoter functional in a plant host, a structural gene coding for mammalian protein and a terminator functional in a plant host. The construct is introduced into a plant cell to become integrated into the plant genome for expression in the plant cells or plants. The plant cells may be harvested and the mammalian protein isolated in physiologically active form.

Abstract: The present invention provides a gene, termed “FT” for flowering locus T, and a polypeptide encoded by FT that modulates flower development in plants. FT is useful in methods of the invention for producing genetically modified plants characterized as having the phenotypic trait of modulated flower development, for example early or delayed flowering. Such plants can be genetically modified by nucleic acids encoding functional FT peptides; at least one antisense nucleic acid for FT; a structural gene that encodes wild-type FT polypeptide; or a structural gene that encodes dominant negative polypeptides, for example, in order to modulate flowering in the plant.

Abstract: The invention provides isolated root transcriptional factor nucleic acids and their encoded proteins. The present invention provides methods and compositions relating to altering root transcriptional factor levels in plants. The invention further provides recombinant expression cassettes, host cells, transgenic plants, and antibody compositions.

Abstract: Disclosed are isolated DNA constructs including (a) a first DNA sequence including either an inducible promoter sequence responsive to the presence or absence of an exogenous inducer or a developmental gene promoter capable of initiating gene expression in a selected tissue or at a selected stage of development of an organism; (b) a second DNA sequence including a DNA sequence coding for a protease enzyme operably linked and under the control of the promoter sequence specified at (a); whereby the presence or absence of the exogenous inducer or the activation of the developmental gene promoter specified at (a) results in expression of the protease enzyme. These constructs are preferably rendered reversible by the presence of further elements. These constructs can be used in plant or mammalian cells for disruption of cell function, controlling senescence and modifying the metabolism of stored proteins.

Abstract: The invention provides isolated PR1-C10 nucleic acids and their encoded polypeptides. The present invention provides methods and compositions relating to altering PR1-C10 concentration and/or composition of plants. The invention further provides recombinant expression cassettes, host cells, and transgenic plants.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a Verbena plant which has erect growth habit and good plant height. The plant has plentiful flowers in a spike, and great profusion of blooms. The blooming period is late April to November and flowering duration is long. The whole bush remains in bloom for a considerable period of time. The flower size is large and the petal color of the flowers is light purplish pink without eye. The plant is highly tolerant to heat and cold, and has high resistances to pests and diseases, particularly powdery mildew, and high resistance to rain.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a Verbena plant which has erect growth habit and good plant height. The plant has plentiful flowers in a spike, and great profusion of blooms. The blooming period is late April to November and flowering duration is long. The whole bush remains in bloom for a considerable period of time. The flower size is large and the petal color of the flowers is vivid purplish red without eye. The plant is highly tolerant to heat, and has high resistances to pests and diseases, particularly powdery mildew, and high resistance to rain.