Apoplast manipulation by plant pathogens
We investigate the molecular mechanisms underpinning host manipulation by plant pathogens, with a particular focus on apoplast manipulation of Solanaceous plants by bacterial microbes. One intruiging aspect of this work is the recruitment of an protease in the extracellular recognition of pathogen-derived inhibitors at the plant cell surface by the Cf-2 resistance protein.
Our research activities also aim at improved molecular pharming of secreted (glyco)proteins through the depletion of extracellular proteases. Unique is our approach to display protein activities by pioneering activity-based protein profiling (ABPP), a powerful functional proteomics technology that offers an exciting platform for collaborations. Please contact us if you are interested to join or collaborate!
