Identification of a MADS-box gene, FLOWERING LOCUS M, that represses flowering

The timing of flowering is important for the reproductive success of plants . Here we describe the identification and characterization of a new MADS-bo x gene, FLOWERING LOCUS M (FLM), which is involved in the transition from v egetative to reproductive development. FLM is similar in amino-acid sequenc e to FLC, another MADS-box gene involved in flowering-time control. flm mut ants are early flowering in both inductive and non-inductive photoperiods, and flowering time is sensitive to FLM dosage. FLM overexpression produces late-flowering plants. Thus FLM acts as an inhibitor of flowering. FLM is e xpressed in areas of cell division such as root and shoot apical regions an d leaf primordia.