Projects
Auxin signalling in bacteria-plant interactions. KU Leuven
Auxin signalling mechanisms during lateral root initiation and their cross-talk with abiotic factors Ghent University
To get insight in the molecular mechanisms that are used by the plant to shape its root architecture in response to environmental factors two 2 major strategies were selected. First, a profound study of lateral root priming will be performed. Secondly, we will investigate the influence of abiotic stress conditions specifically on this phase of root branching.
The auxin indole 3-acetic acid as signal molecule in bacteria. KU Leuven
The auxin indole-3-acetic acid as signal molecule in bacteria. KU Leuven
Calcuim, a second messenger in auxin physiology Ghent University
In the plant survival strategy, the activity of the plant hormone auxin plays a central role. Therefore, it is important to understand how signaling of auxin perception occurs, and which mechanisms control auxin homeostasis (biosynthesis, transport, conjugation and degradation). In this project, we will analyse the interplay between Ca²+ availability, auxin signaling and homeostasis in greater detail.
Molecular analysis of the radial auxin transport mechanisms that_x000D_ underly lateral root spacing Ghent University
The root system of plants is critically important for growth and survival and has been key to the success of the colonization of land by higher plants. The main functions of roots are that they anchor plants in the soil and that they allow to forage the soil for water and nutrients. The root system of many plants consists of a long primary root with regularly spaced lateral branches to optimize water and nutrient uptake. The regular pattern ...
Morphogenetic auxin gradients as an interface between cellular processes and multicellular plant development Ghent University
In this project we will employ approaches of molecular genetics, developmental and cell biology to identify the cellular and molecular mechanism of the processes determining the directional throughput of itnercellular auxin flow at level of individual cells as well as these approaches will give us unprecedented insight into the mystery of plant adaptive development especially how plants integrate signals from the environment and translate ...
Medical imaging to unravel the link between sugar, auxin and organ abscission in sweet pepper Ghent University
Fruit development involves a plethora of processes that control phytohormone signaling and sugars transport. Deeper understanding of these processes is key to crop improvement. Whereas ripening of climacteric fruit (e.g. tomato) is characterized by a burst in ethylene production and respiration, mechanisms within non-climacteric fruit (e.g. pepper, strawberry) are still a matter of debate. This project’s first objective is to shed a light on ...
Characterisation of auxin-induced Ca2+ signaling via chemical genetics Ghent University
Auxin is one of the most important regulators of plant development. Recently, we found that calcium plays an important rol in the regulation of auxin tranport. Here, we will screen a chemical library for inhibitors of auxin-induced Ca2+ signaling. Through the analysis and characterisation of such molecules and their targets, we aim to unravel the underlying molecular mechanism