PRIN 2017 - 2017ZBBYNC_003 - LS9 - Titolo: "Regulatory signals and redox systems in plant growth-defence trade off"- Dott.ssa Di Matteo (DSB.AD006.254)

Thematic area

Biomedical sciences

Project area

Structure responsible for the research project

Institute of molecular biology and pathology (IBPM)

Project manager

ADELE DI MATTEO
Phone number: 0649910236
Email: adele.dimatteo@cnr.it

Abstract

When challenged by biotic stresses, plants rely on their innate immune system, which can be activated by MAMPs and DAMPs. Activation of immunity is accompanied by a down-regulation of growth, referred to as growth-defense trade-off. This project aims at disentangling the interplay between plant immune and developmental processes by elucidating the regulatory circuits involving plant cell wall-derived DAMPs, namely oligogalacturonides, cellulose fragments and polyamines. Mechanisms for the homeostasis of these signals relying on specific oxidases are a special focus of this study. Moreover, the complex dynamics of reactive oxygen species and calcium, key elements in the downstream transduction cascade, will be elucidated. The participating units share a common background in plant defense and development and a high-level and synergistic expertise that covers all aspects of the proposed research. Acquired knowledge will be crucial for breeding- and biotechnology-based strategies aimed at reducing crop losses caused by stress and fulfills objectives of the Horizon 2020 Framework Programme [Excellent Science; Competitive Industries; Societal Challenge].

Goals

This research aims at disentangling the interplay between plant immune and developmental processes, also known as growth-defense trade-off. Because costly, immunity is activated only upon sensing MAMPs and DAMPs which activate a complex immune response. ROS and calcium with their complex dynamics and regulation, play a main regulatory role in both immunity and development. Oligogalacturonides (OGs), DAMPs released from the plant cell wall during an infection and the polyamines (PAs) are key signals in both immunity and development. The general aim of this project is to elucidate the role of OGs, PAs and changes of ROS and Ca2+ flux triggered by them in immunity and development. We aim at defining the role of OGOX, cellulose fragment oxidase (CELLOX), CuAO, PAO, PCAP1, ACA
and BON1 as well as their interplay and hierarchical functional relationships, in OG and PA homeostasis and signaling and in growth/defense trade-off.

Start date of activity

29/08/2019

Keywords

molecular plant-microbe interaction, structural biology and crystallography, biochemistry

Last update: 20/05/2025