MADS-box

MADS box is a conserved sequence element found in a family of transcription factor encoding genes, the MADS-box gene family.

The length of the MADS-box is defined differently by various authors, but typical lengths suggested are 168 base pairs or 180 base pairs.

The name is an acronym that refers to the genes in which the sequence element was first identified: MCM1 from the budding yeast, Saccharomyces cerevisiae; AGAMOUS from Arabidopsis thaliana; DEFICIENS from snapdragon, Anitrrhinum majus and SRF from Homo sapiens. The element encodes the MADS-domain that have DNA-binding properties. In plants, MADS-box genes have undergone a substantial radiation and include among others floral homeotic genes (such as AGAMOUS and DEFICIENS) that participate in the determination of floral organ identity according to The ABC Model of Flower Development.

In Arabidopsis the MADS box genes SOC1 and FLC have been shown to have an important role in the integration of molecular flowering time pathways. These genes are essential for the correct timing of flowering, and help to ensure that fertilization occurs at the time of maximal reproductive potential.