Define the role of bZIP1, bZIP53 and bZIP63 transcriptional regulatory factors in maintaining energy balance

Abstract

Efficient management of energy resources is essential for plants to integrate their growth with constantly changing environmentalal conditions. Sugars produced by CO2 fixation by photosynthesis represent the primary source of energy. These sugars are partitioned between sucrose and starch (glucose polymer), which will be consumed during the night to sustain growth. In Arabidopsis thaliana, programmed starch degradation involves the interplay of the circadian clock and the bZIP transcription regulator, AtbZIP63 (bZIP63). bZIP63 acts together with bZIP1 and bZIP53 which are heterodimeric partners. The importance of heterodimers in controlling starch metabolism is unknown. The main objective of the project is to investigate the involvement of bZIP1, 53 and 63 transcriptional regulatory factors in the diel control of energy resources. The work should reveal new insigth into the interface between the circadian clock and sugar signaling in te managment of energy homeostasis focusing on the control of starch degradation. Understanding the mechanisms controlling the balanced use of available energy has the potential to improve biomass production of cultivated plants. (AU)