Speaker: Prof. Lucas, Distinguished Professor, University of California, Davis

Time: 10:00-12:00 a.m., August 8, 2023, GMT+8

Venue: Wiley (Scan the QR code to register and watch online)


Abstract:

The plant vascular system contains two transport systems, the xylem and phloem. The xylem serves as the conduit for delivery of water and mineral nutrients from the roots to the above-ground vegetative organs, and the phloem functions in the delivery of photosynthate (sugars), amino acids, and mineral nutrients to both the roots and shoots. Both systems also serve as important conduits for the delivery of signaling agents, including various hormones. Recent studies have established that the phloem also carries various macromolecules, including proteins and RNAs (mRNA and siRNA), which can function in the control of important agricultural traits, including flowering time, plant architecture, nutrient acquisition and use efficiency, and systemic protection against pathogens. In this lecture some established examples will be presented, followed by a discussion of recent findings on the role of the phloem in the early response of cucumber plants to a nutrient (phosphate; Pi) stress condition applied to the root system. These studies provide important insights into the complexity and dynamic nature of this early Pi-stress-signaling system. Finally, we will show that application of this knowledge can be employed to improve plant growth performance, under both sufficient and limiting Pi conditions.

Source: School of Advanced Agricultural Sciences