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Welcome to the Chen lab at University of Florida!
The Chen lab research is motivated by investigating the molecular functions and networks underlying plant growth, development and interaction with the environment. Only through a thorough understanding of how the plant system works, will it be possible to effectively utilize the immense biosynthetic potential of plants as an efficient, environmentally friendly and renewable source of fine chemicals and pharmaceuticals.
The lab particularly focuses on two model systems. One is glucosinolate metabolism. Glucosinolates are specialized plant natural products that can display diverse biological activities, including anticarcinogenic properties and defense against pathogens and herbivores. Now that the core glucosinolate pathway has been elucidated, our aim is to characterize the regulatory and metabolic networks of glucosinolate metabolism. The other system is guard cell signal transduction. Guard cells are highly specialized plant epidermal cells that enclose tiny pores called stomata. Stomatal movement controls both uptake of carbon dioxide and loss of water, and thus plays important roles in plant growth, acclimation to environment and yield. We aim to characterize protein redox switches and dynamic changes of metabolites in guard cell hormone signaling networks. Recent studies have shown that stomatal movement plays an essential role in pathogen infection. Students in the lab have started to investigate pathogen signaling networks. The ultimate goal of the Chen lab research is to gain a holistic view of plant molecular networks and to create important stepping stones towards biotechnological applications of the plant biochemical factory.
The Chen lab
employs a variety of tools and approaches including molecular biology,
molecular genetics, biochemistry, proteomics, metabolomics and
bioinformatics. Students are expected to receive cross-disciplinary training
and are well prepared for competitive career opportunities.
Educational Resources for Students and Teachers Proteomics Workshop and Symposium 2009
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2033 Mowry Road, Room 438 Cancer and Genetics Research Complex University of Florida Gainesville, FL 32610 |
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Sixue Chen, Ph.D.