Reactive Electrophile Species as Modulators of Plant Growth and Yield
Research collaboration opportunity investigating reactive electrophile species (RES) as natural signaling compounds that modulate plant growth, hormone biosynthesis, and stress resilience in Arabidopsis and corn, with applications in agricultural yield improvement.
Overview
This research program investigates reactive electrophile species (RES) containing alpha,beta-unsaturated carbonyl groups as natural modulators of plant growth and yield. RES are lipid-derived signaling molecules generated through enzymatic and non-enzymatic mechanisms in plants exposed to pathogens, herbivory, or abiotic stress. The project explores how these compounds influence the biosynthesis and signaling of key growth hormones, including auxins and gibberellins, in both Arabidopsis (dicot) and corn (monocot) model systems. The goal is to determine whether RES application can promote cell division or elongation, enhance stress tolerance, and ultimately improve crop yield under challenging environmental conditions.
Technical specifications
Research approach:
- Application of physiologically relevant concentrations of RES to Arabidopsis and corn plants
- Monitoring of growth, development, and yield parameters following RES treatment
- Gene expression analysis via qPCR of auxin-responsive genes (SAUR) and gibberellin-responsive genes (GA20ox)
- Evaluation of cell division regulatory gene expression
- Assessment of RES effects under both normal and stress conditions, including herbivory and cold stress
- Investigation of RES accumulation during specific developmental stages, such as secondary root formation
Key scientific insights:
- RES enhance transcription of cell survival genes
- Different stress types may generate or mobilize distinct RES profiles
- RES may promote growth only after specific stress exposures, linking stress signaling to developmental outcomes
Technology readiness level
This research is at an early discovery stage (TRL 1-2), focused on generating first evidence of RES effects on plant growth, development, and yield. The collaboration between Drs. V. Sponsel and J. Engelberth combines expertise in plant hormone biology and stress signaling chemistry. Initial validation will establish foundational knowledge about RES-mediated growth modulation, with future work needed to translate findings into practical agricultural applications such as yield enhancement, stress resilience strategies, or novel plant growth regulators.
About University of Texas, San Antonio
The University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) is a comprehensive public research university and federally designated Hispanic‑Serving Institution recognized with Carnegie R1 status. Industry collaboration is anchored by a downtown presence that co‑locates the School of Data Science with the National Security Collaboration Center, enabling shared labs, secure environments, and close interaction with government and corporate partners. The university’s location within San Antonio’s defense and aerospace ecosystem—including a formal collaboration with Port San Antonio—provides access to testbeds, talent pipelines, and dual‑use development pathways. Research is supported by competitive federal funding from major national agencies. A dedicated technology transfer office advances IP strategy, licensing, and startup formation for industry‑ready solutions.
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