Current Research In the Schroeder Laboratory

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The molecular mechanisms of signal transduction in higher plant cells are essential to vital processes including, hormone and light perception, stress tolerance, growth, development and nutrient uptake from soils. Our research focuses on molecular and cell biological elucidation of signal transduction cascades in higher plant cells. The chain of events is being defined by which plant cells translate hormone reception and environmental signals to specific cell biological responses. In particular our research focuses on molecular mechanisms which control guard cell movements and metal uptake in roots. 

Stomatal pores in the epidermis of leaves allow CO2 intake from the atmosphere and control transpirational water loss of plants. Two guard cells surround each pore and control the opening and closing of stomata. In guard cells, cell biological, genetic, molecular, and Ca2+ imaging studies on signaling mutants in Arabidopsis are allowing us to identify and characterize novel signal transduction mechanisms and cascades. In recent research we have identified new genes in guard cells that can be manipulated to reduce water loss during drought. 

A second effort in the lab focuses on identifying genes that mediate nutrient and toxic metal uptake into roots. In roots we have cloned potassium and metal uptake transporters and are analyzing their molecular physiological roles and structures with special focus on plant nutrition, metal toxicity and environmental remediation by removal of heavy metals from soils. Recently we and others have identified phytochelatin synthase genes, which play a central role in heavy metal detoxification. Interdisciplinary techniques are being applied in both of the above projects.

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