Parallel Trajectories in the Evolution of C-class MADS-box Genes in Flowering Plants and Conifers

AGAMOUS (AG) genes in conifers show two duplication events before the Cupressaceae–Taxaceae split, yielding AG1, AG2, and AG3 with distinct seed-cone expression roles.

• Why it matters: AG genes are known for reproductive organ identity in flowering plants, but their duplication history and functional diversification in gymnosperms are poorly understood.
• What they did: The authors inferred two pre-split duplication events in conifers and measured in situ expression of AG1–AG3 in seed cones of Metasequoia glyptostroboides, Taxodium distichum, and Juniperus virginiana.
• The result: Expression patterns in Cupressaceae are consistent with subfunctionalization: AG1 is linked to seed and sporangial development, AG2 to seed cone and seed coat development, and AG3 to ovuliferous scale development.

AI summary of the abstract · may contain errors · not medical advice · read the paper.