Pathogenesis Related (PR) 10 proteins in mediating plant responses to stress

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It is well-known that changes in gene expression, leading to changes in the amount and types of proteins that are synthesized in a plant cell, accompany plant responses to stress. A more thorough understanding of the roles played by each of these proteins in mediating those responses in stress is crucial for the development of better, and perhaps more rational, ways of improving plants to tolerate stresses better. Research in our laboratory has led to the identification of specific proteins belonging to the pathogenesis-related (PR) 10 protein family that may have potential to enhance germination, early seedling growth and productivity under conditions of stress. Research proposed in this application will further our knowledge into the precise mechanisms by which these proteins are able to elicit the observed effects. Knowledge gained from these studies will form the basis for developing plants with improved abilities to withstand environmental stresses such as salinity, drought and temperature extremes. Our research is timely and has the potential to mitigate threats posed to food security by improving productivity under conditions of environmental stress which are becoming increasingly common as a result of climate change. It is anticipated that climate change will negatively impact Canada's ability to produce food in a sustainable manner. Our research, therefore, will translate into long-term economic and social benefits for Canada and the rest of the world, brought about as a result of being able to sustain plant agriculture under sub-optimal environmental conditions.