New insights into plant gene regulation
Inside plant cells, DNA is tightly folded into a structure known as chromatin. For gene expression to occur, cellular machinery needs access to the DNA — chromatin remodelling complexes (CRCs) can open up the dense complex where needed. By controlling gene expression in this way, CRCs play important roles in regulatory process like plant growth, differentiation and development. The EU-funded SWI/SNF-CRCS project investigated the role of a particular family of CRCs, the SWI/SNF proteins, in these processes. Using the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana, researchers examined the main targets of the proteins, and how the proteins bind these targets. They also looked into how the SWI/SNF CRCs regulate stress responses upon pathogen attack. The research resulted in several publications in peer-reviewed journals. It also strengthened collaboration between the Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics PAS, Poland and the Max-Planck Institute for Plant Breeding Research, Germany. As such, the SWI/SNF-CRCS project has produced internationally competitive research. The findings provide novel insights into how this family of proteins help regulate physiological and developmental responses in plants.
Keywords
Plant, gene regulation, gene expression, chromatin, chromatin remodelling complexes, plant growth, SWI/SNF, Arabidopsis thaliana, proteins, stress response, pathogen attack
