Our laboratory is building DNA genome maps of important plants for map-based gene isolation, genome sequencing and the development of genomic tools including DNA chip technology. The genome maps will accelerate our efforts to isolate six genes that control flowering time in plants.
Plants contain extraordinarily sensitive light detection systems.
We are characterizing a blue light responsive gene that resides in chloroplasts. The molecular light switch that activates this gene is conserved in higher plants and helps protect plants from damage in high light. Exciting projects in the laboratory include analysis of the blue light signal transduction pathway, regulation of chloroplast gene expression, and regulation of organelle number per cell. A plant wounded by chewing insects becomes protected from further attack by producing the volatile fatty acid hormone, jasmonate. Jasmonate mediates the induction of genes involved in plant defense.