Optimising Photosynthetic Efficiency via Leaf Structure

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Previous research has identified mesophyll conductance (gm) as an important factor which limits the efficiency of photosynthesis and have proposed that optimising this parameter could lead to improved crop performance. Although many previous studies have characterised gm, there have been few methodical studies in which particular elements of leaf cellular architecture have been altered in a targetted fashion and the outcome on gm (and other photosynthetic and physiological parameters) measured. In this project we will use molecular genetic tools which we have developed to alter cellular architecture in a targetted fashion in the model plant Arabidopsis, creating a spectrum of leaf architectures. The outcome on cellular architecture will be quantified using a novel imaging approach (micro-computer tomography) which allows us to measure in intact, living leaves parameters such as mesophyll cell volume, surface area, intercellular void space and leaf thickness). We will analyse the same leaves with combined fluorescent imaging, gas exchange and isotope ratio techniques to gain data on a variety of photosynthetic and physiological parameters (e.g., Pmax, transpiration rate, gm). We will then use these data in modelling approaches to test hypotheses on the linkage of cellular architecture and photosynthesis and physiology, with a focus on mesophyll conductance. We will also explore these data sets to identify potential novel linkages between the different data sets, with the aim of identifying cellular architecture parameters that could be used as leads for screening for improved photosynthetic efficiency. Finally, we will introduce these lead parameters into ongoing screens for rice leaf architecture at IRRI aimed at identifying improved varieties of rice.

The project is aimed at discovering basic information on the
relationship between leaf cellular architecture and the efficiency of
photosynthesis. As part of the project, we will liaise with the leading
centre for rice breeding in the world (IRRI) and explore the potential
of using the information gained in this project to provide a novel
approach to identifying plants with improved photosynthesis and
physiology. If successful, this could provide a major impact for crop
improvement. In addition, during the project we will liaise with a major
European wheat breeder and explore the potential of implementing a
similar approach to wheat. Again, this provides a potential pathway to
impact. We will also use our research as an exemplar of a
multidisciplinary approach to a major problem in food security in
various outreach activities which we are involved in. The research
outputs of the work will also have an impact on the academic community
and we will disseminate the outputs of the project via scientific
journals and conferences. Finally, our project will provide an excellent
training environment for the young scientists employed to perform the
research. They will gain training in advanced approaches of molecular
biology, physiology, imaging and modelling, equipping them for a career
in multidisciplinary research.
To summarise, the project will have impact by:
- Provision of data to IRRI to explore a novel screening approach to
improve rice.
- Delivery of knowledge of this screening approach to a UK/European
wheat breeder.
- Engagement of stakeholders, particularly school groups and the general
public with our project and the current imperative to produce high
yielding crops (the food security agenda).
- Dissemination of research findings via publication in scientific
journals, and talks at scientific conferences and institute seminars.
Provision of skilled researchers and staff for academic and non-academic
positions