Research Projects

Our preliminary studies in Arabidopsis have revealed a novel and intriguing role for the heat shock protein HSP101 in regulating ploidy and chromosome behavior. Specifically, the absence of HSP101 leads to neopolyploidization, a phenomenon characterized by aberrant chromosome associations, an elevation in ploidy levels, and increased flower and seed sizes. These observations suggest that HSP101 is involved in maintaining chromosomal integrity and regulating processes that govern cell division and growth. Our quantitative PCR (qPCR) data further support the hypothesis that HSP101 influences the cell cycle by modulating the activity of cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) and their inhibitors, such as KRP2, which are key regulators of cell cycle progression. This project aims to expand on these preliminary findings by investigating the role of HSP101 in cell cycle regulation and endoreduplication under non-stress conditions in Arabidopsis, and subsequently applying these insights to rice. Endoreduplication, a process where cells replicate their DNA without undergoing division, can lead to increased cell size and ploidy, which has significant implications for plant growth, development, and yield. By examining how HSP101 influences these processes, we hope to uncover fundamental mechanisms that could be leveraged for improving crop performance. The project will also focus on exploring the allelic variations of HSP101 in Indian rice varieties, specifically in the context of heat tolerance, meiosis, ploidy regulation, and seed yield. Rice, being a staple crop for much of the world, is highly sensitive to heat stress, which can adversely affect its growth and reproductive success. Identifying HSP101 alleles associated with enhanced heat tolerance could provide valuable genetic markers for breeding programs aimed at developing heat-resilient rice varieties. Moreover, by understanding how HSP101 affects meiosis and ploidy levels in rice, we can better understand its potential role in improving seed yield, as increased ploidy and cell size are often linked to enhanced biomass and grain production. CRISPR/Cas9 will be employed to create HSP101-null mutants for functional validation in Indian rice varieties exhibiting higher heat tolerance and seed yield. Ultimately, this research aims to identify HSP101 alleles that can be used as genetic markers for breeding rice varieties with improved heat tolerance and higher seed yield. The findings of this project will not only advance our understanding of HSP101’s role in plant cell biology but also contribute to the development of more resilient crop varieties, which is critical for ensuring food security in the face of climate change. Through these efforts, we hope to support sustainable agricultural practices and enhance the productivity of rice farming.