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| Competition for resources within the plant |
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H. Sandermann1, G. Müller-Starck2, and G. Wenzel3
1 GSF-Institute of Biochemical Plant Pathology; A1
2 TUM, Section of Forest Genetics; A9
3 TUM, Chair of Plant Production and Breeding; A10
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The most basic level of research within SFB 607 concentrates on competition for resources within the plant. Developmental and environmental signals can lead to the selective induction of growth- or defence-related genes, signalling substances, enzymes and metabolites. Some principles identified so far are as follows:
- Developmental, environmental and pathogen-related responses are in part overlapping, and network concepts need to be developed.
- These networks contain hierarchical elements, e.g. defence-related responses can silence growth responses.
- On the other hand, there are cross-reactions, e.g. some growth processes are also important for defence responses. General defence programs such as the hypersensitive response or systemic acquired resistance can be triggered not only by pathogens but also by ozone or heavy metals, or even by symbionts or normal development.
The three SFB-projects to be introduced have the following topics:
- A1: Molecular mechanisms of plant defence under conditions of competition and host/pathogen interaction: Secondary metabolism and gene induction.
- A9: Genetic characterization of experimental material, analysis of gene expression and development of DNA-markers.
- A10: Plant defence reactions upon biotic stress: Molecular analysis of pathogen induced gene expression for potato/Phythophtora infestans.
The task of these projects is to identify molecular trigger points, response networks and rules for linkage to the higher levels of ecophysiology and plant/pathogen as well as plant/symbiont interactions.
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