The present invention provides methods for modulating the growth and/or
yield of plants. In particular the methods comprise the use of agents
which functionally inhibit the expression of plant D-like cyclin
inhibitors including isolated polynucleotide sequences which interact
with DNA or RNA encoding proteins capable of binding plant D-like
cyclins. Further, the present invention provides recombinant
polynucleotide sequences, vectors and host cells which encode proteins
capable of binding to and inactivating the activity of plant D-like
cyclin/cyclin dependent kinase complexes preventing plant cells from
exiting the cell cycle. Methods for determining and agents which are
inhibitors of the BRO cyclin dependent kinase inhibitor proteins which
are capable of modulating plant cell cycle progression are also provided.
Methods for the production of transgenic plant cells and plants with
increased growth rates and yields when compared to wild-type plants are
also provided.