Signalling function and metabolism of extracellular nucleotides in plants

• Applicant: Dr. Iris Steinebrunner
• Subject Area: Plant Physiology
• Term: from 2010 to 2014
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 185591125

ATP does not only drive energy-dependent reactions inside cells; but can also function outside the plasma membrane in the extracellular matrix as a signalling molecule. This external role of ATP is well established in animal cells, but not until recently it has become apparent that extracellular ATP (eATP) can also function as a signalling agent in plants. Besides elucidation of the signal transduction machinery it is of interest to investigate how eATP is degraded and salvaged. Two of the three partners will provide their expertise in plant eATP signalling and salvage. The third partner combines experience both from the animal and plant field and will contribute his biochemical expertise to understand the, regulation of eATP. Together, we aim to intensify scientific exchange and promote collaborations between partner laboratories.Young scientists will benefit from the opportunity for scientific feedback at yearly network meetings and for broadening their experimental skills by mutual research visits. This network (eight members in total with seven junior scientists at different levels and one full professor) will help to shed light on the role of eATP from different angles and will boost this growing field in plant science.

• DFG Programme: Scientific Networks
• International Connection: Poland
• Participating Persons: Professor Dr. Michael Komoszynski; Dr. Torsten Möhlmann