Molecular Evolution of MADS-domain proteins

MADS-domain proteins comprise an important family of transcription factors which are characterized by the highly conserved DNA-binding MADS domain. These proteins have been identified in nearly all eukaryotes where they have various functions in signal transduction and developmental control. Of particular interest are MADS-domain transcription factors in plants for their crucial roles in development and the link of their evolution to the emergence of novelties.

Recently we have made a major contribution towards a better understanding of the origin and early evolution of MADS-domain proteins (Gramzow et al., 2010). In the near future, we will concentrate on the evolution of MADS-domain proteins in plant. We will make use of the availability of whole-genome and EST-sequence information (see, e.g., Banks et al. 2011) for an increasing number of species for thorough investigations of the evolution and diversification of MADS-domain proteins. Topics of special interest include the dynamics of MADS-box gene birth and death, the modes of selection acting on MADS-domain proteins, and the role of MADS-domain proteins for the origin of novelties, such as seeds and flowers, during the evolution of land plants.