Missouri researchers lead discovery identifying gene that plays role in determine sex in green algae

In Missouri, international team of researchers led by the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center has made a groundbreaking discovery in the world of developmental biology. In their latest study on volvocine green algae, the scientists identified a new gene, named VSR1, that plays a vital role in the activation of genes specific to the development of female and male reproductive cells. In doing so, the researchers unveiled a comprehensive model for how sex is determined in green algae, opening the door for improving traits in similar species through targeted breeding and selection – with important implications for biotech, biofuels, and agriculture. This work, titled, “A conserved RWP-RK transcription factor VSR1 controls gametic differentiation in volvocine algae,” was recently published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.