We research for: Molecular analysis of plant adaptation to stress

Phosphorylation, which is catalyzed by protein kinases, is a key mechanism for intracellular signal transduction in both eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells. Our Unit is elucidating the gene regulatory networks regulating plant adaptation to stresses from signal perception to gene expression as well as the crosstalk among different hormone pathways, and plant growth regulated by the same phosphorelay using both gain-of-function and loss-of-function approaches. We mainly focus our project on the two-component phosphorelay system in osmotic stress response and cytokinin signaling. At the same time we also want to translate our knowledge to develop value-added crops such as soybean.

Content of Research

1. Identification and functional analysis of non ethylene receptor histidine kinases (NER HKs) and the downstream cascades that are involved in sensing the external stimuli and eliciting defense response in plant.
2. Elucidation of the function of NER HKs and the downstream components in plant growth.
3. Development of drought tolerant crops by biotechnology approach based on Arabidopsis basic knowledge.