Cytoplasmic genetics

Due to their prokaryotic origin, cytoplasmic genomes exhibit distinctive characteristics when compared to nuclear genomes. Our research group is particularly interested in exploring these unique features, with an emphasis on:

• the inheritance of cytoplasmic genomes, and
• the impacts of cytoplasmic genetics on plant physiology.

Our research focus on understanding how plastid and mitochondrial genomes are transmitted across generations. Unlike nuclear genomes, which are inherited from both parents, cytoplasmic genomes in most plant species follow maternal inheritance. While this phenomenon was discovered decades ago, the underlying mechanisms remain largely unknown. Our goal is to uncover these mechanisms by identifying the genetic and environmental factors that influence this crucial process.

Nuclear genomes undergo strict DNA replication and segregation during mitosis, ensuring that each daughter cell receives an identical set of chromosomes. In contrast, cytoplasmic genomes undergo vegetative segregation, a process that involves stochastic sorting of plastids and mitochondria during cell division. This sorting process becomes particularly intriguing when genetically distinct organelles coexist within the same cell, a condition known as heteroplasmy. One of our research lines focuses on identifying the mechanisms that govern the efficient segregation and selection of cytoplasmic genomes in heteroplasmic plants.

As endosymbiotic organelles, plastids and mitochondria must function in harmony with their host to ensure efficient cellular processes. We are particularly interested in cytonuclear interactions, including compatibility and signaling mechanisms. Effective communication and coordination between the nucleus, plastids, and mitochondria are especially critical when plants face stressful conditions. Our goal is to understand how these organelles contribute to plant adaptation in various environmental conditions, and how cytoplasmic genetics affect key plant traits such as photosynthesis and fertility.