This three-year National Science Foundation Project Grant of $1.4 million supports research at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln to characterize mutant strains of the rice blast fungus Magnaporthe oryzae that are unable to properly maintain the biotrophic interface or membrane integrity during growth in host plant cells. The goal is to uncover novel cellular, biochemical, and genetic mechanisms governing rice infection. Results may provide insights into fundamental concepts of plant-microbe interactions that could help promote beneficial relationships while diminishing detrimental ones to improve crop health. The funding also aims to provide an inspiring research environment for students, particularly those from underrepresented groups, to consider careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Funded through the NSF's Biological Sciences program, this award reflects the agency's mission to advance the biological sciences and strengthen the national science enterprise.
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