Spatial Transcriptomic of Wheat Grain for ion transport (TranScripION)

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Wheat grain has low levels of iron and zinc which contributes to micronutrient deficiencies in the billions of people who rely on wheat as a staple food. Biofortification has the potential to enhance micronutrient content in the human diet without the sustainability concerns and additional costs associated with conventional fortification during processing. The accumulation of micronutrients in the wheat grain is dependent on genetically regulated processes, but the mechanisms underlying the transport of micronutrients from the parent to the seed have not been extensively studied. By understanding these processes, the Borrill lab seeks to enhance micronutrient content in wheat grains. In this proposed research, I will conduct a spatial transcriptomic analysis of wheat grain filling, aiming to delineate the transcriptional profiles within specific spatial domains during the grain filling stage and identify key genes encoding micronutrient transporters. I will investigate the specific gene expression patterns within distinct cell subgroups at the maternal-filial junction and construct an electronic in situ expression atlas and generate spatiotemporal regulatory network maps. This project will enhance our understanding of wheat endosperm cell functionality and identify heterogeneity within tissues of wheat grains. Moreover, it will elucidate the mechanisms through which the maternal-filial tissues communicate and exchange nutrients and micronutrients, further expanding our knowledge in this area.