Functional analysis of eucalyptus grandis tubulin genes involved in wood formation

Abstract

Knowledge of the process of wood formation and the molecular control of wood quality determination are fundamental prerequisites for our understanding of the evolutionary success of trees in terrestrial ecosystems and for meeting the performance demands for commercial wood and fibre products in the future. In this context, the most important wood quality trait after density is cellulose microfibril angle (MFA). MFA influences wood fibre strength and flexibility which are important in supporting tree architecture and form, as well as for solid wood and pulp and paper products. Research in a number of plant species has provided evidence that MFA is linked to cortical microtubules and might be ..