Plant Functional Genomics

Plant Functional Genomics is part of the GPlantS unit

The Lab

Plant growth and yield depend much on the environment, which plays a critical role in the expression of plant genetic potential. Environmental (abiotic) stress is a major cause of losses in plant productivity worldwide, with resulting economical instability.

The Plant Functional Genomics Lab is particularly interested in the study of the environmental impact on plant growth regulation and on the adaptation strategies that permit some plants to survive the stress. We are using a genomics approach to explain plant stress responses, from the regulation of chromatin structure and epigenetic modifications to functional characterization of transcriptional networks and post-translational protein modifications regulated by stress.

Our main focus is Rice (Oryza sativa), due to its worldwide importance as a food crop, and Cork Oak (Quercus suber). We have also expertise in other plants including grapevine (Vitis vinifera), physic nut (Jatropha curcas), almond (Prunus dulcis), and Arabidopsis thaliana (used as a plant model).

Group leader: Prof. M. Margarida Oliveira