PhD defence by Ylenia Vittozzi
Uncovering functions of microProteins in tomato plant development and shade avoidance response
This thesis explores the diverse functions of microProteins (miPs) in shaping plant development and stress responses, with a focus on advancing agricultural breeding strategies and enhancing plant adaptability to low light conditions by discovery of novel microProteins. The investigation centers on the dicot crop tomato, serving as a model species to elucidate the functions of the uncharacterized gene Wimpy Giant (WG), also known as AFP3 in tomato, and its alternative transcript Mighty Dwarf (MD) encoded solely in the second exon of the gene.
The first chapter provides an in-depth overview of AFP proteins, highlighting their significance in plant biology and discussing previous research conducted in Arabidopsis thaliana and other monocot species, setting the stage for the subsequent chapters.
The second chapter delves into the functional characterization of MD and WG in tomato, unveiling their physiological roles related to the hormonal cross-talk pathways of biotic and abiotic stresses. This study set the basics for further investigation about the translation of the alternative transcript in a putative microProtein.
In the third chapter, attention shifts to the discovery of a novel microProtein triggered by shade, further expanding our understanding of how plants adapt to environmental cues. This microProtein's involvement in key developmental processes, such as shoot elongation and iron uptake, underscores its importance in plant acclimation strategies. Through a cohesive exploration of miPs across different plant species and stress conditions, this thesis underscores the versatile and transformative potential of microProtein research in advancing plant breeding approaches and enhancing plant resilience in dynamic environments.
Supervisors
Professor Stephan Wenkel, Umeå University
Associate Professor Fernando Geu-Flores, PLEN
Assessment committee
Reyes Benlloch Ortiz, Associate Professor, University of Valencia
Sonia Gazzarrini, Professor, University of Toronto
Professor Hans Thordal-Christensen, PLEN (Chair)
Time and venue
Thursday 06 June 2024 at 13:00
A1-01-02 (Bülowsvej, next to the Festauditorium)