Molecular basis of synergy between PIs and defensins against fungi. The plant defensin nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide dehydrogenase subunit 1 (NaD1) has potent antifungal activity against agricultural and human pathogens and has potential in the treatment of serious diseases that affect crop production and human health. NaD1 has been found to permeabilise membranes and allows entry of other molecules into the fungal cytoplasm. While screening for molecules that enhance the activity of defensi ....Molecular basis of synergy between PIs and defensins against fungi. The plant defensin nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide dehydrogenase subunit 1 (NaD1) has potent antifungal activity against agricultural and human pathogens and has potential in the treatment of serious diseases that affect crop production and human health. NaD1 has been found to permeabilise membranes and allows entry of other molecules into the fungal cytoplasm. While screening for molecules that enhance the activity of defensins a number of proteinase inhibitors were identified that act synergistically with NaD1. This project aims to identify the molecular basis of this synergy which is expected to lead to better control of fungal diseases of crops and in humans.Read moreRead less
Transport systems that underpin nitrogen efficient maize. This project aims to define the nitrogen transport network involved in the uptake, storage and redistribution of inorganic nitrogen (nitrate and ammonium) over the developmental life cycle of maize. This information will provide novel insight into the genetic control of nitrogen use in maize and other cereal crops.