Research
Plants commonly have strategies for both sexual and asexual reproduction. These reproductive functions do not evolve independently, but asexual reproduction e.g. through clonality, has consequences for sexual reproduction, typically by relaxing selection for sexual traits and allowing mutational degeneration in genes related to sexual functions. In my research, I am interested in both sexual and asexual reproduction of plants.
Related to sexual reproduction, I study genetics of speciation – i.e. genes involved in development of reproductive isolation. I have been using hybrids within and between outcrossing Arabidopsis species (A. lyrata, A. halleri and A. arenosa) to investigate reproductive barriers. Species barriers commonly manifest themselves as reduced hybrid viability and/or fertility. In these Arabidopsis species, reduction of hybrid pollen fertility is one of the first barriers to emerge between incipient species. Therefore, my main focus is on pollen related traits.
Regarding asexual reproduction, my main interest is in clonality and its relation to sexual reproduction. Vegetative reproduction is typically associated with longevity and perenniality, and it can also be seen as a survival strategy, in conditions where sexual recruitment is low. Clonality has consequences for sexual reproduction, typically by relaxing selection for sexual traits and allowing mutational degeneration in genes related to sexual functions. The genetic basis of clonality has remained unknown, as the model plants of genetics are typically annuals. I use European aspen (Populus tremula) and Arabidopsis lyrata, as model species to study clonality and its genetic basis. In addition, I aim to identify whether clonality has affected sexual functions, specifically pollen quality and flowering frequency in these species.
Contact
Johanna Leppälä
Senior Scientist
Production of field crops
Natural Resources Institute Finland (LUKE)
Rovaniemi, Finland
E-mail:
More information: https://www.luke.fi/en/experts/johanna-leppala
CV J. Leppälä
- 2018: Assistant professor, Umeå University
- 2011-2017: Postdoc, University of Helsinki, Finland
- 2010-2011: Researcher/postdoc, Umeå University
- 2011: PhD genetics, University of Oulu, Finland
- 2003: MSc genetics, University of Oulu, Finland