14-3-3 Proteins
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Tomato 14-3-3 genes  		 o
oDefence response target proteins
Tobacco 14-3-3 genes   oAntisense 14-3-3 plants
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14-3-3 Proteins Plant defence signalling 14-3-3 structure/function
14-3-3 proteins are found in all eukaryotes where they function as regulators of a wide range of biological processes. They function by interacting directly with numerous different target proteins thereby altering their activity. Interactions are generally mediated by phosphorylation of specific binding sites in the target proteins. 14-3-3 binding can either:
  • directly alter protein activity (either positively or negatively),
  • control nuclear-cytoplasmic shuttling,
  • mediate protein import into mitochondria and chloroplasts,
  • form a scaffold to permit interactions between two different binding proteins.
We are particularly interested in identifying and characterising roles for 14-3-3s in plant cell signalling.
Plant defence responses to pathogens are a major focus for us, and we have identified calmodulin-domain protein kinases (CDPK), MAP kinase pathways, lipoxygenases and ion channels as potential targets for 14-3-3 proteins important in defence. We use the tomato Cf9/Avr9 resistance response as a model, and have identified 12 different 14-3-3 genes in tomato, three of which are pathogen responsive.

 

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 As well as taking molecular genetic and biochemical approaches to investigate 14-3-3 protein-protein interactions in plant defence responses, we are also interested to determine whether and how different 14-3-3 isoforms play specific roles in the plant. This will be achieved through:
  • kinetic analysis of 14-3-3 protein-protein interactions,
  • structural analysis of plant 14-3-3 protein complexes,
  • detailed analysis of the regulation of expression and localisation of plant 14-3-3 proteins.