The GAI gene of Arabidopsis thaliana has been cloned, along with mutant
and homologue gene sequences. Expression of such genes in plants affects
characteristics of the plants including growth. GAI expression inhibits
growth of plants, which inhibition is antagonised by gibberellin (GA).
Expression of gai mutants confers a dwarf phenotype which is
GA-insensitive. Manipulation of expression of GAI and gai genes in plants
results in tall or dwarfed plants. Dwarf plants are useful in particular
for reduction in crop losses resulting from lodging.
