In silico analysis of terpene synthase genes in Arabidopsis thaliana

Abstract

Terpenes are defense chemicals found in wide groups of plants. Terpenoids play a large role in plant development and stress response. The terpene synthase family comprises a diverse set of genes, all which contribute to production of terpenoids. We have used tools of bioinformatics and performed an in silico analysis of developmental and tissue specific terpene synthase gene expression in Arabidopsis thaliana, as well as those expressed due to biotic and abiotic environmental stimuli. Using software tools from Genevestigator, a powerful microarray analyzer, we used multiple tool sets to better understand terpene synthase expression in Arabidopsis, which will hopefully open the genetic door to further wet laboratory investigations. The data can be used to predict roles of terpene synthase genes in plant cell division and growth. The data presented here can be used to model for terpene synthesis expression in other plant species and can also be used to integrate basic plant physiology, and ‘omics’ disciplines.