Regulatory Networks during Developmental Phase Transitions and Abiotic Stresses

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Research in my laboratory focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms that control the transition from the embryonic to the vegetative phase of development. This phase transition coincides with the break of dormancy and the onset of germination. The mechanisms controlling the embryonic-to-vegetative phase transition are poorly understood, despite the fact that they greatly affect crop yields worldwide. For instance, a problem in modern agriculture tightly linked to seed dormancy is pre-harvest sprouting of seeds (vivipary), when still attached to the mother plant in the field. This results in reduced grain quality and financial losses in a wide range of cereals. Therefore, there is great interest in reintroducing dormancy in certain cereal varieties without affecting other growth parameters.