521-306 Plant Biochemistry: Molecular Mechanisms and Regulation

Credit Points:

When taken from Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Science:

10.0

When taken from Agriculture, Faculty of Agriculture, Forestry and Horticulture:

8

Coordinator:

Prerequisite/s:

Timetable:

Contact:

Objectives:

By the end of the program the student should have acquired:

• a detailed understanding of the molecular processes underlying the regulation of basic plant functions;

• a detailed knowledge of photosynthesis, carbon partition and associated adaptive responses;

• an understanding of the molecular basis of plant growth regulation;

• an understanding of the mode of action of plant hormones and related herbicides;

• an understanding of the molecular basis of plant responses to stress;

• an overall appreciation of the way in which knowledge of regulatory mechanisms at the molecular level can be utilised in the improvement of crop production.

Content:

Introduction to the major plant-specific biochemical processes. Biochemistry, regulation and molecular structure of photosynthetic organelles and mechanisms and regulation of photosynthesis. Molecular structure of specialised plant membranes; structure and function of membrane-associated control and transport systems; signal transduction mechanisms including protein phosphorylation pathways; phytochromes and related light receptors. Mechanisms of action of hormones and related herbicides in plants. Mechanisms of plant stress response including interaction with plant pathogens.

Assessment:

Prescribed Texts:

• P. J. Lea and R. C. Leegood eds., Plant Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, 1993, John Wiley and Sons Ltd.