UV Light Signal Transduction

Ultraviolet-B (UV-B) radiation, a component of sunlight, plays a crucial role in regulating plant growth and development. Shortwave UV-B (~311 nm) is generally regarded as a light signal that modulates plant growth, while broad-spectrum UV-B (280-315 nm) can cause damage to plants. UVR8 is the most recently identified photoreceptor. Under UV-B exposure, UVR8 dissociates from its dimeric form into active monomers and accumulates in the nucleus.

Our research group was the first to report that UVR8 directly interacts with transcription factors to regulate gene expression (Developmental Cell, 2018; Nature Plants, 2018; EMBO Journal, 2020). We also discovered that brassinosteroids are involved in regulating plant UV tolerance (The Plant Cell, 2020). In addition to regulating aboveground growth, UV-B also influences root development (EMBO Journal, 2020).

To date, our team has achieved systematic breakthroughs in UV signal transduction. Moving forward, we aim to further explore the interplay between UV signals, other environmental cues, and endogenous plant signals. Our goal is to unravel the mechanisms by which UV signaling regulates plant growth and development. Additionally, we will investigate how UV influences crop growth, providing a theoretical basis for improving crop architecture, enhancing yield, and increasing stress resistance.