Objective
Research objectives and content
The project aims at elucidating molecular mechanisms involved in the acclimation of cyanobacteria to changing parameters in the environment. It is focused on the adaptation of the light harvesting antenna of Calothrix spp. to the incident light wavelengths, a process called complementary chromatic adaptation (CCA). A detailed characterization of the RcaA and RcaB proteins, two transcription factors implicated in CCA recently isolated in the host laboratory, will be achieved. A main goal will be to prove the proposed identity of RcaA with glutamyl-tRNA synthetase, an enzyme also required for the synthesis of proteins and of all the pyrrolic compounds (hemes, chlorophylls, phycobilins). A detailed analysis of the different domains of this multifunctional protein will be carried out. Biochemical and genetic approaches will also be used for identifying and characterizing new elements involved in the perception of the light signal and its transduction to the effector molecules.
Training content (objective, benefit and expected impact)
The proposed project will enable the candidate to complement the scientific skills he previously acquired by studying the regulation of nitrogen assimilation in a simple cyanobacterium and the transduction of signals in eukaryotic cells during oncogenesis. Nowadays recognized as having many potential biotechnological applications, cyanobacteria will in the near future increasingly benefit humankind.
Links with industry / industrial relevance (22)
Call for proposal
Data not availableFunding Scheme
RGI - Research grants (individual fellowships)Coordinator
75724 Paris
France