List of hosts accepting graduate students and postdocs

Researcher Name: Arthikala, Manojkumar

Research Area(s): Gene Regulation

Affiliation: Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México

Country: México

Website 

Scientific Interests:

A defining characteristic of legume plants is their remarkable ability to establish mutualistic symbioses with both arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and Rhizobium bacteria. These symbiotic relationships have garnered increasing scientific attention due to the substantial nutritional benefits they provide to the plants. The field of forward genetics has identified a set of plant genes crucial for the early developmental stages of both AM fungi and rhizobial symbioses, collectively known as the ‘common symbiosis genes.’ The AM symbiosis is considered one of the most ancient, dating back to the earliest land plants, while the divergence of basidiomycetes and ascomycetes, responsible for plant diseases, occurred later. Despite the growing understanding of these associations, knowledge regarding the shared genetic network between pathogenic agents and AMF in legumes remains in its early stages.

Our research is driven by long-term objectives aimed at unraveling the molecular mechanisms governing conserved molecular components in mycorrhizal symbiosis and interactions with root fungal pathogens in legumes. Additionally, we are dedicated to gaining insights into the molecular events that regulate signaling in legume-Rhizobium symbiosis.

To achieve these goals, we employ a diverse set of methodologies, including transcriptomics, proteomics, gene functional analysis, CRISPR cas9, gene overexpression, confocal microscopy, and downstream molecular analyses. Through these approaches, we aim to contribute to a deeper understanding of the intricate molecular processes that underlie symbiotic relationships in legume plants.

This offer applies to trainees/researchers eligible for the following fellowships

Everyone (not restricted to fellowship holders)

Contact:

manoj@enes.unam.mx