9305453 Southworth In flowering plants, the process of fertilization underlies production of seeds and fruits. Although the structural events of double fertilization have been described, little is known about the molecular mechanisms of fertilization. Plant sperm are embedded in pollen grains and move down the growing pollen tubes. Near the egg, the pollen tube releases two sperm: one fuses with the egg to form the embryo, the other fuses with the central cell adjacent to the egg to form the endosperm that supports growth of the developing embryo. A major unanswered question in plant reproduction is how the sperm recognizes the egg or central cell, adheres to it, and fuses with it. Recognition molecules may be in or on gamete membranes. Monoclonal antibodies to sperm cell surfaces are the first step in identifying unique sperm molecules. The goals of this project are (1) to identify unique sperm membrane molecules by screening monoclonal antibodies to isolated plant sperm cells and (2) to involve undergraduates in a pioneering research project. The antibodies will be obtained from fusions of splenocyte of mice immunized with sperm cells from Brassica. The results will further our knowledge of basic developmental mechanisms that function in plant reproduction and will lead to a basic understanding of fertility and sterility in plants. Such information can be used to produce hybrids from incompatible species and inhibit fertilization where male sterility is required to prevent self-crossing. Undergraduate students will gain valuable insight into active research by solving problems and assisting in attainment of goals. The research experience will facilitate their development as scientists. ***
