Thesis supervisor: László Kozma-Bognár
Location of studies (in Hungarian): University of Szeged, Faculty of Science and Informatics, Department of Genetics Abbreviation of location of studies: SzTE
Description of the research topic:
Circadian clocks are biochemical timing mechanisms providing temporal regulation to a wide range of molecular and physiological processes so that these processes are scheduled to the most appropriate time of the day/night cycle. In plants the central oscillator relies on transcriptional/translational feedback loops operated by the clock genes/proteins. The central oscillator is synchronized to the day/night cycle mainly by light signals (input), whereas the rhythmic signal from the oscillator is relayed via the output pathway. Although the basic oscillation is thought to be generated at transcriptional level, controlled modification of clock proteins is essential for proper clock function.
We have identified two novel clock mutants in Arabidopsis thaliana. Independent of the light conditions, the mutants show short or long period rhythms of CAB2:LUC expression indicating acceleration or deceleration of the central oscillator, respectively. Mapping-by-sequencing identified 5 or 6 potential mutations (SNPs) that are closely linked to the corresponding phenotypes.
The aim of the present project is (i) the detailed physiological and molecular characterization of these mutants, (ii) the identification of the corresponding mutant genes amongst the few candidates, (iii) functional analysis of the proteins encoded and (iv) the integration of their biochemical function in the current model of the plant circadian clock.
During the implementation of the project, state-of-the-art methods, like in vivo bioluminescence imaging will be combined with modern molecular techniques (e.g. generation of transgenic plants, analysis of gene expression, protein biochemistry/analytics) and classical physiological assays (e.g. flowering time determination, photomorphogenic responses) in order understand the mechanisms by which the newly identified two clock components affect the function of the circadian oscillator and its connections to other signaling systems.
Required language skills: English Recommended language skills (in Hungarian): English Further requirements: MSc in biology, willingness and ability to read and understand relevant scientific publications
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