[CEPCEB_All] IIGB Seminar: Philipp Zerbe 3/20

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*Philipp Zerbe*
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*Multi-purpose Metabolites: Diversity and Function of Monocot Diterpenoid
Chemical Defenses*

*       Date:* Friday, March 20

*          Time:* 12:00 pm-1:00pm

*             Location: *Genomics Auditorium 1102


*Abstract:*
Understanding plant metabolism can make important contributions to
addressing global challenges related to sustainable agriculture, food and
bioenergy safety, and healthcare. Plants produce an astonishing array of
biologically active metabolites that mediate the interaction with and
adaptation to their environment. Among these metabolites, terpenoids
encompass a diverse group of more than 70,000 compounds with critical
functions in plant development, chemical ecology and stress adaptation.
Many terpenoids also find use as pharmaceuticals, biofuels, and other
bioproducts. Against this background, our research integrates functional
genomics, metabolomics and protein structure-function appraoches to
investigate the diversity, biosynthesis and physiological function of
terpenoids in plant-environment interactions and stress resilience. We will
present new insights into the discovery and characterization of
species-specific diterpenoid-metabolic networks in maize (Zea mays) and
switchgrass (Panicum virgatum). Both species feature large modular pathway
networks that lead to the production of specific blends of bioactive
diterpenoids. In vitro and in planta bioactivity assays demonstrate potent
antimicrobial activities for compounds identified in both species.
Furthermore, select diterpenoids show stress-induced accumulation in and
exudation from roots and several lines of evidence support functions of
diterpenoids in abiotic stress responses possibly via modulating
interactions with rhizosphere microbiota. Collectively, these findings
highlight an expansive evolutionary divergence of diterpenoid metabolism in
monocot crops, thus providing a resource for developing crops that can
withstand future climate and associated pest and disease pressures.
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