Investigating Plant Terpenoid Metabolism and Bioproduct Applications

Plants are nature’s master chemists; they deploy complex networks of specialized metabolites to interact with other organisms and adapt to their environment. Among these metabolites, terpenoids encompass the largest class with critical functions in plant development, chemical ecology and stress adaptation. Terpenoid chemical diversity also offers a rich source for bioproducts, including flavors, fragrances, pharmaceuticals and more. A deeper understanding of the mechanisms underlying the diversity of plant terpenoid metabolism can offer innovative avenues toward agricultural and other industrial applications. Toward this vision, the Zerbe Lab integrates functional genomics, metabolomics and various protein biochemical and genetic appraoches to investigate the biosynthesis and physiological function of terpenoids in food, bioenergy, and medicinal plants. We will discuss the discovery of common and species-specific terpenoid pathways across different plant species that provide new insights into the evolutionary divergence of terpenoid metabolism, its role in plant-environment interactions, and how this knowledge can be applied toward crop improvement and bioproduct engineering.

Speaker: Philipp Zerbe, UC Davis

Attend in person or online (register at weblink).  In-person meeting includes optional lunch at 12:00.  Reserve at weblink.