Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 9, 2026

Lignin Down-regulation of Zea mays via dsRNAi and Klason Lignin Analysis
Published on: July 23, 2014
The genetics of lignin biosynthesis: connecting genotype to phenotype
Nicholas D Bonawitz1, Clint Chapple
1Department of Biochemistry, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana 47907-2063, USA. nbonawit@purdue.edu
Abstract:
The processes underlying lignification, which for many years have been the near-exclusive purview of chemists and biochemists, have more recently been approached using both classical forward genetic screens and targeted reverse genetic approaches such as antisense suppression, RNAi, and characterization of insertional mutants. In this review, we provide an overview of the current understanding of lignin biosynthesis and structure, with emphasis on mutant and transgenic plants that have contributed to this knowledge. We also discuss ongoing work aimed at elucidating the relationship between lignin structure and function in vivo, as well as the phenotypic consequences arising from genetic manipulation of the lignin biosynthetic pathway.
Related Concept Videos
Background and Environment Affect Phenotype
An example of how genetic background affects phenotype can be seen in horses. The Extension gene in horses is responsible for their coat color. A wild-type gene (EE) produces black pigment in the coat, while a mutant gene (ee) produces red pigment. A...
Epistasis
Genetic Lingo
Inheritance
Each gene exists in pairs, and the combination of these genes from both parents forms an individual's genotype. This genotype is a blueprint of potential traits. Examples of genotype traits...
Epistasis Analysis
Pharmacogenetic Phenotypes: Alterations in Pharmacokinetics, Drug Targets and Biologic Milieu

