Organization
This course is organized into two sections. The first is designed to provide a broad overview of the mechanisms of organ formation and cellular patterning in higher plants. The second will cover all aspects of the biosynthesis, regulation, and action of phytohormones and other known small signaling molecules. Each class incorporates one or more readings, a written outline, and additional extracuricular materials, which will change weekly. Links to classes are integrated into the syllabus at right.

Class materials
There is no assigned text. Instead, this course will use public web resources. All materials are available through this site and the Angel class website. Materials are not designed to be printed. Routine access to a high-speed internet connection is essential.

Grading
Numerical grades will be given for this course. Grades are based on:

1) Exams (25% each)
Written exams covering Section I and Section II will be given on Oct 13 and Dec 5, respectively.

2) Presentations (10% each)
Each student will have the opportunity to lead the class in discussion of two key recent scientific publications related to plant development. Grades reflect both the student's presentation and participation in others' presentations. Presentations will be on Fridays: Sep 5, Sep 12, Sep 19, Sep 26, Oct 3, Oct 10, Oct 24, Oct 31, Nov 7, Nov 14, Nov 21, and Dec 1.

3) Research proposal (30%)
A major portion of the grade in this course will be a research proposal, written by the student, relevant to a topic covered in the course. This is formulated in consulation with one of the instructors.

This course focuses on the genetic, molecular and biochemical mechanisms influencing development in higher plants, including the patterning, cellular organization, formation of tissues and organs, mechanisms underlying developmental diversity, and biosynthesis, regulation and activity of phytohormones.

Tentative syllabus for Fall 2010

Section I. Mechanisms of organ formation and patterning (Dr. S. van Nocker)
Aug 25. Introduction to plant development
Aug 27. Plant growth, composition and dynamics of the cell wall
Aug 29. Root structure and development
Sep 3. Meristem dynamics
Sep 8. Leaf initiation and phyllotaxy
Sep 10. Structure and formation of the vasculature
Sep 15. Leaf development
Sep 17. Timing of flowering I
Sep 22. Timing of flowering II
Sep 24. Meristem identity and inflorescence structuring
Sep 29. Floral organ formation and development, patterning of the flower
Oct 1. Development of dry fruits, dehiscence and abscission
Oct 6. Development and ripening of fleshy fruits (Dr. Cornelius Barry)
Oct 8. Seed development and embryogenesis
Oct 13. Exam I

Section II. Biosynthesis, regulation and activity of phytohormones (Dr. Jianping Hu)
Oct 15. No class
Oct 17. Plant signal transduction
Oct 20. Light-regulated development
Oct 22. Light-regulated development
Oct 27. Auxin
Oct 29. Auxin
Nov 3. Cytokinins
Nov 5. Gibberellins
Nov 10. Gibberellins
Nov 12. Ethylene
Nov 17. Ethylene
Nov 19. Abscisic acid
Nov 24. Brassinosteroids
Nov 26. Brassinosteroids
Dec 3. Jasmonates
Dec 5. Exam II

PLB/HRT865 Plant Growth and Development
Fall 2010 M/W/F 11:30-12:20, Room 247 Plant Biology
3 credits

Note: Approved elective course for Program in Genetics and Program in Cell and Molecular Biology. Open to undergrads with permission of instructors. Enrollment for Fall 2010 will be limited to 25.

Dr. Jianping Hu, Dept. Plant Biology, huji@msu.edu
Dr. Steve van Nocker, Dept. Horticulture, vannocke@msu.edu