Etablishing the role of glutaredoxins in mitochondrial redox homeostasis and associated plant cell function

• Applicant: Dr. Elke Ströher
• Subject Area: Plant Biochemistry and Biophysics
• Term: from 2009 to 2012
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 131583190

Posttranslational modifications like formation of disulfide bonds or glutathionylation are important for a reversible adjustment of protein activities according to the redox requirements of their cellular environment. Moreover, they are discussed as crucial elements in signalling cascades. A detailed characterization of so called key players is urgently needed in order to understand the function and interconnection of the redox proteome under regular and stress conditions. Members of the thioredoxin superfamily, such as thioredoxins (Trxs) and glutaredoxins (Grxs) are the most likely candidates for re-reduction of oxidatively modified proteins. Recent results suggest that especially the functions of Grxs are much more diverse than assumed. The mitochondrial proteome, due to the function in energy metabolism, is of strong interest in order to understand the link between energy metabolism and redox regulation mediated by Grxs. Therefore the proposed work will employ a combination of biochemical, genetic and proteomics-based approaches in order to assign the specific function to the mitochondrial Grxs.

• DFG Programme: Research Fellowships
• International Connection: Australia
• Host: Professor Dr. A. Harvey Millar