How does the plant decode self- and non-self-signals to balance immune response and growth?

Plants sense microbial pathogens through the detection of pathogen associated molecular patterns (PAMP) and this is mediated by cell surface localised pattern recognition receptors (PRR). Perception of PAMPs triggers a signaling network that includes activation of mitogen activated protein kinases (MAPK), activation of defense gene expression and ultimately leads to PAMP triggered immunity (PTI). What connects activated PRRs to downstream MAPKs has remained elusive. We have identified potential candidate phospho-proteins that could bridge the gap in our understanding of PRR signaling. In the current project the receptor based signaling event will be studied with advanced proteomics approaches, molecular genetics approaches and cell biology (using confocal microscopy). The project will also involve significant protein biochemistry.