Axel Touw

Glucosinolates (GSLs) are a class of well-studied defence metabolites that are characteristic for brassicaceous plants. In line with optimal defense theory, GSL accumulation is highest in the most valuable plant organs, such as seeds, developing leaves and roots. However, interactions with pathogens, nematodes or insect herbivores can affect these patterns. In my project, I study how sink-manipulators such as nematodes and aphids possibly affect the allocation of GSLs over the plant. These organisms are able to create metabolic sinks at their feeding site, which redirects the flow of photosynthates, nutrients and possibly GSLs in their direction. In this way, sink-manipulators can have a profound effect on the performance of organisms sharing the same host-plant.  

I will use an integrative approach to study the effects of sink-manipulators on GSL allocation, which includes transcriptome, metabolome and performance assays. By performing a series of manipulative experiments, I will study the expression dynamics of GSL transporter and biosynthesis genes in local and systemic tissues. I will quantify and qualify the accumulation of GSLs in roots and leaf tissue and the resulting effects on the performance of above- and belowground herbivores and the plant itself.

ResearchGate

This project is funded by iDiv (FZT-118, DFG).