Beyond RTG 2498 – Exploratory Research
The role of RNAs in the unfolded protein response in plants
This project will investigate the unfolded protein response (UPR) in plants. UPR is a cellular stress response triggered by the accumulation of unfolded or misfolded proteins in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). This response aims to restore normal ER function and promote cell survival. One of the central pathways involved in the UPR is mediated by IRE1 (Inositol-requiring enzyme 1), a key sensor of ER stress. As part of this project you will screen for mRNA targets of IRE1 using RNA-seq, validate hits in vitro and in Arabidopsis thaliana and investigate the biological effects of target RNAs. You will learn and apply NGS-RNA-seq methods, molecular, cellular and RNA biology techniques to the model organism Arabidopsis thaliana.
