Research Projects
Mycorrhizal Symbiosis, Diversity and Physiology
We investigate the diversity of the fungal community in forest stands at the molecular level and relate this to the diversity of tree species present. For functional biodiversity studies, we employ stable isotope labeling. Using radioisotopes, we examine the transfer of nutrients between fungi and plants within a laboratory setting.
Contact: PD Dr. Ines Teichert
Molecular Biology of Mycorrhizal Symbiosis
We investigate ectomycorrhizal symbiosis using a laboratory model at the Petri dish scale. To analyze the factors involved in establishing and maintaining the symbiosis, we are developing genetic transformation methods for the fungi. Our goal is to characterize candidate genes in both symbiotic partners using reverse and forward genetic approaches, thereby gaining insight into the molecular mechanisms of the symbiosis.
Contact: PD Dr. Ines Teichert
RNA editing in filamentous fungi
We analyze mRNA editing in fungi using the model organism Sordaria macrospora. This hyphal fungus from the group of ascomycetes has a simple life cycle that is completed within seven days in the laboratory.
Only recently, adenosine (A) to inosine (I) editing of mRNA was detected in filamentously growing ascomycetes. It occurs exclusively during sexual development, more precisely, during the formation of sexual fruiting bodies and spores. How editing is enzymatically catalyzed in ascomycetes is still unknown.
Contact: PD Dr. Ines Teichert
Molecular Ecophysiology of Stress Adaptation and Seasonality in Trees
We investigate molecular and physiological responses of trees to stress and to globally changing environmental conditions. The major model is Populus. Molecular and physiological networks involved in defence responses (salt, heavy metals) and nutrition (nitrogen, carbon, and other nutritional elements) are studied by expressional profiling and functional characterization. To improve wood properties, we employ tree biotechnology. Furthermore, our studies include molecular and genomic studies of important forest tree species such as European beech (Fagus sylvatica).
Contact: Prof. Dr. Andrea Polle
Biotic Interactions and Diversity
Temperate forest tree species generally form symbiotic associations with ectomycorrhizal fungi, which provide water and nutrients to the trees in exchange for carbohydrates. Fungal diversity is investigated at the molecular level and linked with tree diversity. Stable isotope labeling, physiological studies in axenic fungus-plant systems and molecular physiology are employed to unravel functional biodiversity.
Contact: Prof. Dr. Andrea Polle