Key Tasks of the Network
Central support for subprojects of all three work packages related to the genetic modification of crops and the analysis of desired biochemical or physiological properties of transgenic plants
PIs –
Dr. Sophia Gerasimova (Plant Transformation and Genome Editing)
Dr. Michael Zahn (Protein Production)
Dr. Stephanie Krüger (Microscopy)
MLU Biocenter
Postdocs –
Robin Schick
José Victor dos Santos Silva
Dr. Pratibha Kumari
Most of the 14 Work Packages within the VALUE PLANT network focus on translating findings from model organisms like Arabidopsis thaliana to crop plants. While modern transformation and genome editing technologies enable this transfer, they require specialized expertise not available in all participating groups. Crop plants are not only being improved for environmental resilience but also explored as biofactories, for instance, to produce recombinant proteins for industrial or medical use.
Recognizing the growing importance of crop-focused research, the MLU Biocenter has restructured its service units to provide essential support in the areas of Plant Transformation and Genome Editing, Protein Production, and Microscopy. These centralized services now act as key resources for VALUE PLANT subprojects, offering technical infrastructure and expert support. The VALUE PLANT projects also serve as a launchpad to integrate and develop these newly established service units.