Plant rhomboid family proteins involved in ERAD

Plants are constantly exposed to environmental stresses, such as extreme temperatures, prolonged periods of drought, and pathogens. These stresses have the potential to pose a significant threat to the survival of plants. A pivotal process in the protection of plant cells is the appropriate folding and disposal of defective proteins. The present research project investigates how plants recognise and dispose of such proteins within a specific cell structure known as the endoplasmic reticulum. The present study focuses on a family of proteins known as rhomboid pseudoproteases, whose role in this process is still poorly understood. Using modern imaging techniques, mass spectrometry, and genetic analyses in the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana, this study aims to elucidate the involvement of individual proteins from this family in the degradation of misfolded proteins. The ultimate objective is to acquire novel, fundamental insights into the protein quality control mechanisms in plants. In the long term, these findings could contribute to enhanced plant resilience to environmental stress.

No additional funding sources recorded.