We will design, engineer and implement an experimental-theoretical synthetic biology framework for the quantitative understanding, control and engineering of complex plant molecular signaling networks regulating cellular and leaf and root tissue differentiation, development and function. The project comprises two approaches: i) reconstruction of plant signaling pathways in orthogonal, mammalian systems to carry out quantitative studies on pathway architectures, which are otherwise technically challenging to perform on a cellular level in planta due to the molecular complexity of signaling networks. It enables rapid testing of genetic diversity of cellular components and their directed evolution on a scale/throughput rate that is not possible in planta. It also yields high-throughput quantitative data that will be used to generate dynamic mathematical models, which will inform how the effects of genetic variation at the level of gene regulatory networks translate into differential pathway function and hence phenotype, and be used to instruct experimental in planta studies; ii) Optogenetics in combination with CRISPR-Cas-based techs in multiplexing set ups will provide maximized control and specificity of activity of target regulators in planta, in terms of spatial resolution, temporal control, quantitative levels, and reversibility. Overall, this approach will enable the targeted investigation of networks, functional studies, and ultimately to obtain novel traits for crop improvement.
Qualifications needed: Plant and mammalian cell culture, synthetic biology, optogenetics
Contact person: Matias Zurbriggen, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf
