Abstract:
Plants, due to their sessile nature, have evolved intricate molecular mechanisms to respond to environmental stresses, including the formation of stress granules (SGs). SGs are membrane-less organelles that sequester translationally repressed mRNAs and proteins during adverse conditions. While SGs are established as key survival structures in plants, their composition and molecular assembly mechanisms remain poorly understood. Our research focuses on unraveling the molecular intricacies of plant SGs, with particular emphasis on Oligouridylate Binding Protein 1c (UBP1C), a known SG-associated protein. By investigating how UBP1C’s modular domains govern its phase separation behavior, RNA binding, and recruitment to SGs, this work aims to deepen insights into plant stress adaptation, paving the way for future innovations in crop resilience.

Bio:
Malavika is a Master's student in the Bioscience Department at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), specializing in the Cell and Molecular Biology track. Under the supervision of Prof. Monika Chodasiewicz, her research focuses on investigating plant stress granules(SGs) and their role in conferring stress tolerance to plants. Specifically, she is characterizing the functional role of plant-specific SG proteins in sequestration processes during heat stress. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Manipal University, MAHE, India, where she conducted research on the physiochemical characterization of gamma-irradiated Oryza sativa starch granules, with a focus on its applications for diabetic-friendly diets.