The University of South Alabama (USA) was awarded a $321,802 Project Grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF) Biological Sciences program (CFDA 47.074) to characterize the lipid and protein components of plant cell plasma membrane nanodomains and explore their contributions to plant immunity. The 3-year research project, commencing on March 1, 2025, will use a combination of proteomic, lipidomic, and biochemical approaches to identify shifts in nanodomain composition and dynamics upon activation of plant innate immunity in the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana and the economically important crop potato. This work aims to advance fundamental understanding of membrane nano-scale structure and dynamics and their role in plant disease resistance. The project will also support the development of an undergraduate research experience and provide training for K-12 teachers to engage students in this research area.
Generated 3/18/25, 4:04 AM