Introduction
The Special Crop Science Laboratory (SCSL) advances plant science by integrating plant breeding, hormonal regulation, and synthetic biology to address critical challenges in agriculture and medicinal plant research. Our studies encompass model species, major crops, and medicinal plants, with a particular emphasis on Arabidopsis thaliana as a model system for elucidating core mechanisms of plant growth and development, and on Korean ginseng (Panax ginseng Meyer) as a key species for dissecting the genetic and biochemical underpinnings of specialized metabolism in medicinal plants.
1. Plant Breeding and Haploid Technology
We develop and implement cutting-edge haploid breeding technologies at accelerating the improvement crop species. Our research includes:
- In vivo haploid induction through functional analysis of the PATATIN-RELATED PHOSPHOLIPASE (pPLA) gene family
- In vitro microspore culture techniques for the generation of doubled haploids
- Clonal seed propagationvia engineered synthetic apomixis
- Unreduced gamete formation using the MiMe (Mitosis instead of Meiosis) system to pioneer novel breeding strategies
These approaches are complemented by CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing and advanced molecular breeding tools, targeting crops such as Arabidopsis, rice, soybean, tomato, and ginseng. Through these integrated strategies, we aim to establish efficient pipelines for the development of next-generation crop varieties.
2. Regulation of Plant Growth through Auxin Signaling
We investigate the molecular architecture of auxin transport and signaling to understand how hormonal networks orchestrate plant growth and development. Our ongoing research focuses on:
- Functional characterization of regulatory elements influencing auxin transporter activity in Arabidopsis
- Examination of Hechtian strands as mechanical-signal transduction interfaces modulated by auxin transporters
By elucidating the molecular interplay between auxin transport systems and mechanical signaling pathways, our research deepens the fundamental understanding of how hormonal and physical cues are integrated to control plant growth dynamics.
3. Synthetic Biology of Ginsenoside Biosynthesis
Our laboratory harnesses synthetic biology to decipher and engineer the biosynthetic pathways of ginsenosides—pharmacologically active triterpene saponins found in Panax ginseng. Major research directions include:
- Elucidating the transcriptional regulation of genes involved in ginsenoside biosynthesis
- Discovery of novel transcription factors via yeast one-hybrid screening
- Application of nanoparticle-based elicitors and genetic engineering strategies to enhance ginsenoside production
These efforts aim to uncover the regulatory networks governing ginsenoside biosynthesis and provide a framework for improving the metabolic output of medicinal plants through bioengineering.
Why Join SCSL?
SCSL offers a dynamic and collaborative research environment where plant biotechnology converges with molecular genetics to address both fundamental and applied scientific questions. Our team utilizes CRISPR genome editing, multi-omics technologies, and advanced bioengineering to drive innovation in:
- Crop improvement and precision breeding
- Hormonal regulation of plant architecture and growth
- Metabolic engineering of high-value natural products
We welcome passionate and motivated researchers who aspire to make transformative contributions at the interface of genetics, plant physiology, and biotechnology.
