CSB Seminar: Prof. Jeffrey F. Harper, Dept of Biochemistry, University of Nevada, Reno

Prof. Jeffrey F. Harper
Chair of Department of Biochemistry
University of Nevada, Reno

“Coding and Decoding Calcium Signals in Plants“

Abstract:
Research in the Harper lab is focused on the role of Ca²⁺ signalling in various aspects of plant biology, including pollen tube growth and fertilization, and regulation of biotic and abiotic stress responses. Projects include understanding the structure and biological functions of proteins that both create and decode Ca²⁺ transients. For example, ion channels such as CNGCs (Cyclic Nucleotide-Gated Ca²⁺-permeable ion Channels) and Ca²⁺ pumps such as the ACAs (Autoinhibited Ca-ATPases).  These pumps and channels form circuits that are regulated to control the influx and efflux of Ca²⁺ into the cytosol (i.e., Ca²⁺ transients). In addition, the lab is interested in how different Ca²⁺ transients are decoded through the activation of CPKs (Calcium-Dependent Protein Kinases) and how these phospho-regulatory pathways are used to control processes important for growth, such as secretion and cell wall biosynthesis.

Host:  Prof. Keiko Yoshioka

Video Conferencing at UTM (DV 4001) & UTSc (MW 229)