Plant structural genomics focuses on understanding the three-dimensional structures of proteins in plants, which is crucial for deciphering their functions and interactions. By employing techniques such as X-ray crystallography and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, researchers can visualize the molecular architecture of plant proteins involved in various biological processes, including photosynthesis, metabolism, and stress response. This knowledge is instrumental in designing targeted strategies for crop improvement and biotechnological applications, such as enzyme engineering for biofuels. As structural genomics continues to evolve, it offers insights into the complex molecular machinery of plants, facilitating advances in both fundamental and applied plant biology.
Title : Preventing/minimizing development of resistance in fungal plant pathogens to fungicides
Mohammad Babadoost, University of Illinois, United States
Title : Mycorrhizae and their role in climate resilience in agricultural systems
Mary Cole, The University of Melbourne, Australia