Targeted analysis of the arbuscular mycorrhizal symbiosis phenome in a model host, tomato. We will capitalise on our previous discovery of novel phenotypic variation in arbuscular mycorrhizas in mutant and wild-type tomato, to explore development and function of the symbiosis at the molecular-genetic level. We will clone and sequence the gene responsible for mycorrhiza-defective phenotypes to provide inferences on function and relations with other genes. We will determine if plant defence blocks ....Targeted analysis of the arbuscular mycorrhizal symbiosis phenome in a model host, tomato. We will capitalise on our previous discovery of novel phenotypic variation in arbuscular mycorrhizas in mutant and wild-type tomato, to explore development and function of the symbiosis at the molecular-genetic level. We will clone and sequence the gene responsible for mycorrhiza-defective phenotypes to provide inferences on function and relations with other genes. We will determine if plant defence blocks fungal colonisation in the mutant and/or varies with different wild-type phenotypes and explore molecular mechanisms of nutrient transfer from fungus to plant in relation to phenotypic diversity. The project will provide new insights into genome/phenome interactions controlling this widespread beneficial symbiosis.Read moreRead less
ARC Centre of Excellence - In Plant Energy Biology (CPEB). Plant cell metabolism underlies the synthesis of important products in crops, and subtle changes in metabolism can enhance germination rates, early seedling vigour, biomass/yield, and tolerance to harsh environments. Research in CPEB will focus on control of this metabolism. Its expertise will enhance Australia's participation in major international research efforts directly relevant to sustainable agriculture in a country with fragile/ ....ARC Centre of Excellence - In Plant Energy Biology (CPEB). Plant cell metabolism underlies the synthesis of important products in crops, and subtle changes in metabolism can enhance germination rates, early seedling vigour, biomass/yield, and tolerance to harsh environments. Research in CPEB will focus on control of this metabolism. Its expertise will enhance Australia's participation in major international research efforts directly relevant to sustainable agriculture in a country with fragile/degrading ecosystems. The research will provide new approaches for enhancing quality metabolite traits important for human health. It will further strengthen our international leadership in plant energy science, and will strengthen Australia's research training in systems biology to influence plant function.Read moreRead less