AbstractThe SHORT VEGETATIVE PHASE (SVP) gene encodes a MADS-box gene family of transcription factors that repress floral transition. To explore the function of the Brassica rapa SVP (BrSVP) gene during the flowering time of this species, a construct containing BrSVP under the control of the cauliflower mosaic virus 35S promoter was introduced into B. rapa via Agrobacterium-mediated transformation. The resulting transgenic plants showed delayed flowering time, and RT-PCR analyses further revealed that BrSVP repressed the expression of the floral integrator genes AGL20, AGL24, and FT during vernalization. Our data indicated that BrSVP acts as a negative regulator in the flowering time of B. rapa and that it may therefore be a useful genetic source for crop improvement with respect to flowering time regulation.