FPU2025 - Breakthroughs in the functional relevance of PEX11A in plant stress responses and peroxisomes-nucleus crosstalk

Plants have evolved mechanisms that allow them to adapt to changes occurring in their environment. These are organized in a complex network mediated by signals, such as ROS/RNS and associated redox changes being key factors that organize plant stress responses. The biosynthesis of different phytohormones, together with ROS/RNS metabolism, make peroxisomes, with their high plasticity, essential for the regulation of developmental processes and plant responses to stress, being considered a global and multifunctional player. In our lab we aim to understand peroxisomes function in plant responses to stress. We investigate the role of peroxin PEX11A, as a peroxisomal sensor of ROS/RNS signals, in plant responses to stress and we explore the peroxisome crosstalk with the nucleus, seeking their possible physical interaction, the regulation of the redox state of the nucleus by peroxisomes and the peroxisomal retrograde signaling. Results from this project will allow us to better understand the role played by peroxisomes as stress sensors and regulators of plant responses to adverse conditions, leading to plant acclimation and resistance. This study offers PhD students the opportunity to work on an original research hypothesis using a wide range of multidisciplinary approaches and methodologies to study signalling problems in plant biology, including physiology, biochemistry, bioinformatics and an evolutionary approach will be taken into account. Short international stays are also pla