RUI: Function and Structural Characterization of Secondary Product Glucosyltransferase Clones from Citrus paradisi

黄酮类化合物是一类主要由植物产生的化合物。除了在植物生命周期中的重要作用外，类黄酮还具有重要的食品特性，包括对风味和抗氧化活性的贡献。这项研究的重点是促进我们对葡萄柚中产生特定类黄酮的方式的理解。具体地说，将研究将糖基添加到类黄酮中的酶(葡萄糖转移酶)的结构和功能，并确定这些酶在不同类别类黄酮的生产中所起的作用。更广泛的影响：该项目将在位于阿巴拉契亚南部经济贫困地区的一所以本科生为主的机构提供培训和教育机会。这项研究的模块化性质非常适合本科生和硕士研究生参与全面的研究体验，包括设计和执行实验，分析结果，在科学会议上发表演讲，以及准备发表文章。PI将指导本科生的职业机会，并将通过包括研讨会、辅导班和个人学生研究活动在内的各种活动，向初中、高中和小学学生和教师开展外联活动。

Flavonoids are a major group of compounds that are produced by plants. In addition to their significant roles in the plant life cycle, flavonoids have important food properties, including contributions to flavor and anti-oxidant activity. The focus of this research is to advance our understanding of the manner in which specific flavonoids are produced in the grapefruit. Specifically, the structure and function of the enzymes (the glucosyltransferases) that add sugar groups to the flavonoids will be studied, and the roles that these enzymes play in the production of different classes of flavonoid will be defined. Broader Impact: This project will provide training and educational opportunities at a predominantly undergraduate institution located in an economically disadvantaged region within Southern Appalachia. The modular nature of this research is well suited to the engagement of undergraduate and M.S. students in comprehensive research experiences that include designing and executing experiments, analyzing results, making presentations at scientific meetings, and preparing articles for publication. The PI will mentor undergraduate students about career opportunities, and will engage in outreach to middle school, high school and elementary school students and teachers through a variety of activities that include workshops, mentoring classes and individual student research activities.