The Cellwall Biotechnology Centre (CBC) studies the fundamental molecular and biochemical processes involved in the development of plant cells so that more specialised plants can be grown in the future.

Plants can potentially supply the world with all the chemicals, raw materials and energy that we need. By improving the way that we use plants, we can improve plants to fill specific needs. Imagine trees with completely novel properties - trees with fibres that could be used to make clothes or with carbon content that could be used as a new source of energy.

Research on the biochemistry and genetics involved in modifying plant cells is the first step towards creating plants to meet specific needs by growing in a way that meets particular manufacturing and product requirements. In the future, this might mean that most newly planted plantation forests and crops will be genetically designed for specific purposes.

Which gene makes branches develop? Which gene makes hardwood form? The research team in the CBC is working to identify the specific control points that lead to variations in the basic patterns that we see in cell walls. Our research covers four main areas.

• Gene discovery - identifying gene sequences that are expressed differently in different-aged tissues undergoing xylogenesis (forming wood).
• Screening of candidate genes - narrowing down the list of genes that potentially affect wood and cell formation from hundreds to around 10. This involves mapping with DNA markers.
• Functional analysis of genes involved in cell wall development - genetically engineering plant cells in the laboratory and observing the results.
• Environmental risk and management - using glasshouse and field trial experiments to understand and minimise any potential risk of genetically engineered trees.

Fluorescence Microscopy of Wood (CD Rom)
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Contact:  Dr Tim Strabala