Investigating the biogenesis of plant peroxisomes: the role of the endoplasmic reticulum, membrane protein targeting, and pMVB formation

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A hallmark of eukaryotic cells is the compartmentalization or "division of labor" of distinct metabolic pathways into separate subcellular organelles, a process that is ensured by the proper intracellular trafficking of protein constituents to each organelle. Research described in this grant application is aimed at gaining an understanding of the biogenesis (assembly and maintenance) of peroxisomes - organelles that are found in virtually all eukaryotic cells and are highly dynamic in regards to their shapes, motility and metabolic functions. They are also important sites for the development of some viral pathogens. Indeed, scientists now appreciate that peroxisomes participate in far more processes than previously proposed and that, as new discoveries continue to be made, even more unexpected roles for peroxisomes will likely be uncovered. The emphasis of the planned research is on elucidating the molecular mechanisms underlying the biogenesis of peroxisomes in plant cells, specifically the role the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) as the membrane template for the formation and maintenance of (new) peroxisomes, the intracellular trafficking of peroxisomal membrane proteins, and the strategies that viruses employ in order to exploit peroxisomes for their replication within infected plant cells. Overall, state-of-the-art interdisciplinary and complementary approaches will be utilized in order to enhance our basic knowledge of plant biology, including the fundamental processes of peroxisome assembly and the mechanisms of virus replication. These studies will be important also in a broader context since the results can be applied to our understanding of (conserved) peroxisome functioning in other organisms, such as in humans where defects in peroxisome biogenesis underlie several inherited diseases. Ultimately, this research will not only aid in the future rational design of important Canadian agriculture crop plants to produce important nutritional and industrial bioproducts that rely on proper intracellular protein trafficking and peroxisome-related functions, but also provide excellent training opportunities for the development of scientists who will be well prepared for careers in Canadian academia, government or industry.