Does the N-end rule pathway of targeted proteolysis control the plant immune system?

This project will investigate the role of the N-end rule pathway of targeted proteolysis in the plant response against pathogens. Through advanced proteomics and transcriptomics approaches we aim to identify protein substrates regulated by a specific branch of the N-end rule pathway and investigate their role in the defense response. We will analyse new N-end rule associated genetic resources in barley that should increase resistance to pathogens. This work will provide evidence for a novel post-translational mechanism within the plant immune response, and resources to develop crops with increased resistance to pathogens.