Crosstalk between flowering-time regulators and <i>F</i>. <i>oxysporum</i> response in <i>Arabidopsis thaliana</i>.

<p>Diagram represents a highly simplified schematic of the transition to flowering in <i>Arabidopsis thaliana</i> and the transcriptional affect of <i>F</i>. <i>oxysporum</i> on flowering-time genes relevant to this study. During long days, the mobile signalling component FT travels from the leaf to the meristem to initiate flowering. The FLOWERING LOCUS C (FLC) antagonizes the flowering transition by repressing <i>FT</i> and other floral integrators. In winter annuals, <i>FLC</i> transcription is activated by the plant-specific protein FRIGIDA (FRI). <i>FLC</i> transcription is down-regulated by vernalization (exposure to prolonged cold) or by members of the autonomous pathway at ambient temperatures, allowing flowering to occur under conducive conditions.