Objective
Most plants use the C3 pathway of photosynthesis that is compromised by gross inefficiencies in CO2 fixation. However, some plants use a super-charged photosynthetic mechanism called C4 photosynthesis. The C4 pathway is used by the most productive vegetation and crops on Earth. In addition to faster photosynthesis, C4 plants demand less water and less nitrogen. Overall, our aim is to introduce the characteristics of C4 into C3 crops. This would increase yield, reduce land area needed for cultivation, decrease irrigation, and limit fertiliser applications. If current C3 crops could be converted to use C4 photosynthesis, large economic and environmental benefits would ensue from both their increased productivity and the reduced inputs associated with the C4 pathway. It is important to note that the huge advances in agricultural production associated with the Green Revolution were not associated with increases in photosynthesis, and so its manipulation remains an unexplored target for crop improvement both for food and biomass. Even partial long-term success would have significant economic and environmental benefits. Efficient C4 photosynthesis would be achieved by alterations to leaf development, cell biology and biochemistry. Although initially we will be using model species such as rice and Arabidopsis we envisage rapid transfer of technological advances into mainstream EU crops, such as wheat and rape, that are used both for food and fuel. We will build capacity for C4 research in Europe in this area by the training of future generations of researchers. To achieve this aim we need to increase our understanding of the basic biology underlying the C4 pathway. Our specific objectives will therefore address fundamental aspects of C4 biology that are needed for a full understanding the pathway.
Specifically we aim:
1. To understand the roles and development of the two cell types (mesophyll and bundle sheath) in C4 plants.
2. To identify mechanisms controlling the ex
Fields of science
Not validated
Not validated
Call for proposal
FP7-KBBE-2011-5
See other projects for this call
Coordinator
S10 2TN Sheffield
United Kingdom
See on map
Participants (19)
Participation ended
15057 TORTONA ALESSANDRIA
See on map
40225 Dusseldorf
See on map
CB2 1TN Cambridge
See on map
30167 Hannover
See on map
200031 Shanghai
See on map
51014 Tartu
See on map
75794 Paris
See on map
80539 Munchen
See on map
00185 Roma
See on map
4031 Metro Manila
See on map
OX1 2JD Oxford
See on map
2784-505 OEIRAS
See on map
2781-901 Oeiras
See on map
46100 KAHRAMANMARAS
See on map
8048 Zurich
See on map
PE31 6LZ KING S LYNN
See on map
CB21 4YP LINTON
See on map
15057 Tortona
See on map
1831 Diegem Machelen
See on map