Biosynthesis of Indolic Phytoalexins: Mechanisms of Plant Innate Immune Response

Harvard Medical School, Boston MA

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Abstract

DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): This research proposal describes the development of a research program to study the biogenesis of Arabidopsis phytoalexins. We will begin by investigating the biosynthetic pathway of camalexin, a phytoalexin produced as part of the induced defense response. The first part of our two-phase plan for studying Arabidopsis phytoalexin pathways will focus on the identification of camalexin biosynthetic genes through a collaboration with the Ausubel lab at MGH. During this training period, I will attend relevant meetings and workshops, and I will consult regularly with three senior advisors to establish skills required for timely advance of the project. During the second, independent phase of the project I will biochemically characterize candidate phytoalexin pathway enzymes implicated by the data gathered during phase one. I expect that this work will serve as a springboard for the formulation of a new research program that uses a combination of genetics, chemistry, and biochemistry to elucidate secondary metabolite biosynthetic pathways in plants. A deeper understanding of these pathways will not only illuminate the molecular details of host-pathogen interactions, but it is also likely to have an important impact on human health, given the strong track record of plant natural products as clinically-used medicines. Public Health Relevance: Plants produce a wealth of secondary metabolites for defense against destructive pests. The research program outlined in this proposal explores components of plant immune response pathways as well as the production, distribution, and metabolism of the contributing small molecules. These compounds are contained in commonly consumed vegetables and have been found to have beneficial effects on human health.