Xinnian Dong’s research aims to understand local and systemic immune mechanisms in plants. Dong and her team apply genetic, genomic, molecular, and systems-based approaches to study the dynamic regulation of these responses, including the interplay of immunity with the plant circadian clock. The team is developing new ways of controlling the expression of defense genes in crop plants to minimize yield penalties associated with enhanced broad-spectrum immunity against pathogens. In addition, Dong’s investigation of the plant hormone salicylic acid, a derivative of aspirin, may also provide insight into how aspirin functions medicinally, including preventing cardiovascular disease, reducing cancer mortality rates, and treating type 2 diabetes.
Plants’ immune defenses falter during heat waves, rendering them more vulnerable to insects and pathogens under climate change. HHMI scientists have now figured out why high temperatures knock out a key defense system and they’ve come up with a strategy that bolsters plant immunity. When pathogens attack, the NPR1 protein steps in to control a plant’s immune response. Scientists have now figured out what the protein looks like and how it works – a possible boon for agriculture. Fourteen HHMI scientists are among 84 newly elected members. Researchers have discovered a molecular master switch that triggers the genetic overhaul plants need to fight off pathogens. Fifteen scientists working in the plant sciences gain flexible support from HHMI and the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation to move their research in creative new directions.