Ground based studies of gene expression in Arabidopsis exposed to gravity stresses

As a link in the preparation of the MULTIGEN experiment, which will take place on the International Space Station, ground based studies of the gene expression in Arabidopsis thaliana were performed. Microarray technology was used to screen Arabidopsis seedlings exposed to simulated hypogravity on a Random Positioning Machine and a 1 x g control sample. This screening showed differential expression in 177 out of approximately 8000 genes. Some of these genes can be grouped into functional categories, e.g. general metabolism, biogenesis of cellular components, cellular transport and transport facilitation, and cell rescue and defense response. However, about 50% of the genes encode proteins with unknown function. Based on the above results a new "in-house" cDNA microarray was constructed. Some of the selected genes on this microarray (e.g. Xyloglucan endotransglycosylase, At2g18800) showed differential expression both in Arabidopsis exposed to hypergravity and simulated hypogravity by use of a centrifuge and a Random Positioning Machine.