Evolution of molecular mechanisms that control stomatal closure

• Applicants: Professor Dr. Rainer Hedrich; Professor Dr. Rob Roelfsema, Ph.D.; Professor Dr. Jörg Schultz
• Subject Area: Plant Physiology
• Term: from 2017 to 2021
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 375526557

Stomatal pores in leaves regulate carbon dioxide uptake for photosynthesis and the loss of water through transpiration. These microscopic valves are found in virtually all land plants, except for liverworts, suggesting that they represent an evolutionary ancient adaptation to dry terrestrial habitats. In seed plants, the capability of guard cells to drive rapid stomatal closure is fundamental for survival of periods with unfavourable environmental conditions. Despite of the importance of stomata for a terrestrial life style, little is known about the biology of guard cells in divisions other than the seed plants. In this project, we will compare guard cell properties between all four divisions of stomata bearing plants. Stomatal closure responses to the following four stimuli will be studied: darkness, high atmospheric carbon dioxide concentrations, low relative air humidity, and the drought stress hormone ABA, which are likely to represent major markers for selection during evolution. We will combine physiological experiments with single stoma or guard cell techniques with molecular biological methods and transcriptome analysis, to search for key components of the osmotic motor of guard cells that provokes stomatal closure. Our studies will provide insights into the evolutionary steps that gave rise to the signalling networks controlling stomatal movements in seed plants.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants