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Find out about the aims of the INCT PlantStress Biotech project. Goals In order to facilitate the implementation and monitoring of INCT activities, it was subdivided into 10 specific objectives. Each objective will be developed by a group of institutions with expertise in component activities. The innovation actives coming from each objective will be analyzed for their patent potential and applied directly to the development of biotechnological products or stored in a bank of biotechnological actives of the Institute. The transfer of technology generated and the dissemination of the results obtained will be carried out throughout the duration of the project. 01 Prospecting of new genes and molecules involved in drought tolerance and pest resistance In-plant prospection of genes/molecules for drought tolerance. Prospecting of genes/molecules for resistance to insect-pests. Prospecting of genes/molecules for resistance to phytonematode. 02 Integration of in silico data related to molecules responsive to biotic and/or abiotic stresses and interspecies Cross species. Cross stress (abiotic X abiotic). Cross stress (abiotic X biotic). Cross stress (biotic X biotic). 03 Prospecting new regulatory sequences and epigenetic regulators responsive to environmental stresses 04 Validation of innovation actives in plant-model Validation of innovation actives for drought tolerance. Validation of innovation actives for nematode resistance. 05 Analysis for intellectual property purposes and curation of innovation activess 06 Proof of concept and development of biotechnological products Validation of innovation actives for drought tolerance. Validation of innovation actives for nematode resistance. Validation of innovation actives for insect resistance. Validation of innovation actives for multiple resistance to drought and pests. Obtaining proofs of concept of innovation actives for resistance to drought and/or pests. 07 Training 08 Transfer to society 10 Management 09 Internationalization

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Learn more about AL15, its main goals within the project and meet the laboratory's work team. AL 15 - Molecular plant-pathogen interaction Laboratory Description - PlantStress Biotech INCT In this INCT, Embrapa Soybean’s Plant Biotechnology Laboratory will act in the prospecting of genes involved in parasitism in nematodes, validation of identified genes via transient expression assays (compound soybean plants) and/or virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS), as well as resistance genes and defense mechanisms in soybean. Finally, it will assist in the molecular characterization of transformed soybean plants containing genes previously validated in model plants by AL 02 and AL 08, aiming at the identification of elite events, useful in the Genetic Improvement Program. We hope that the activities conducted at this research institute can contribute to the development of technologies for the sustainability of the soybean production chain, including genotypes adapted to different edaphoclimatic conditions and stresses that affect the crop. Research Lines Genetic and associative mapping of resistance genes to gall nematodes in soybean. Prediction and functional characterization of genes involved in nematode parasitism. Validate the function of plant genes potentially involved in resistance to nematodes via strategies of overexpression or silencing. Validate the function of nematode genes potentially involved in the parasitism mechanisms, via gene silencing strategies (RNAi) in model systems. Our Team Francismar C. Marcelino Guimarães Team Leader Francismar Correa Marcelino is a biologist graduated from the Federal University of Viçosa (2000), where he also took a master's and doctorate course in Genetics and Breeding (2006). She did her Postdoctoral (2011) in Molecular Plant Pathology at Iowa State University (US). She is a researcher at Embrapa Soja, working in the Molecular Genetics of Plants area, focusing on plant-pathogen molecular interaction, in the lines of transcriptomy research in response to infection by phytopathogens (P. pachyrhizi and nematodes), effector characterization and functional genomics in soybean. It also acts in the identification and validation of SNPs markers via genetic re-sequencing strategies for application in assisted selection for the development of soybean cultivars. She is a professor and advisor at the State University of Londrina in the postgraduate course in Biotechnology and Genetics, and in Bioinformatics at UFTPR. She has experience in the fields of Plant Molecular Genetics, Plant-Pathogen Molecular Interaction, Biochemistry and Biotechnology. She has supervised/co-supervised several students with scientific initiation, doctorate and postdoctoral degrees in the different lines of research she works with. Carlos Arrabal Arias Graduated in Agronomic Engineering (1988) and Master in Genetics and Breeding (1991) from the State University of Londrina and PhD in Agronomy (Genetics and Plant Breeding) from the Luiz de Queiroz School of Agriculture (1995). He is currently a researcher for the Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation, at the National Agricultural Research Center-Embrapa Soybean. He is also a collaborating professor in the postgraduate course in Genetics and Molecular Biology at the State University of Londrina. He is currently a member of the Internal Technical Committee and the Internal Biosafety Committee of Embrapa Soja. Currently he is also the Leader of the National Soybean Improvement Project at Embrapa Soja, working mainly on the following themes: soybean cultivars, adaptability and stability, and genetic resistance to insect pests and diseases such as Asian rust. Ricardo Vilela Abdelnoor Researcher at the Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (EMBRAPA) since 1994, working in the field of Molecular Genetics and Soy Genomics. Graduated in Agronomy from the Federal University of Viçosa and doctorate in Agronomy (Genetics and Breeding) from the University of Nebraska, United States, in 2004. He currently participates in several research projects and led the multi-institutional projects "Technological Platform for Integrated Management of the Asian Rust of Soybean "(FINEP) and" GENOSOJA - National Consortium for Studies of the Soybean Genome "(CNPq), in addition to leading projects of Embrapa Macroprogram 2. He is currently an accredited Professor of the Genetics and Molecular Biology program at the State University of Londrina (UEL), having supervised and co-supervised master and doctoral students at the said university. He also serves as co-advisor at the Federal University of Viçosa (UFV), UNESP-Jaboticabal and State University of Maringá (UEM). He coordinated PROCISUR's "Functional Genomics" Platform for five years, and currently serves as a member of the International Soybean Genome Consortium and served as an elected member of the Soybean Genetics Committee (2009-2012). In 2009 he was elected to the "Continuing Committee" of the World Soybean Research Conference (World Soybean Research Conference) for the period 2009-2020, and in 2013 he was chosen as President of the "Continuing Committee", for the period 2013 -2020. He was President of the Organizing Committee of the VI Brazilian Soybean Congress (CBSoja 2012). He was a member of the National Technical Commission on Biosafety (CTNBIO) from 2012 to 2014. In the management area, he was Executive Secretary of the Internal Technical Committee (CTI) of Embrapa Soybean, from 2010 to 2013 and since 2013 he is the Deputy Head of Research & Development Embrapa Soybean. Since 2013 he is a member of the Sectorial Chamber of the Soybean Productive Chain, linked to the Ministry of Agriculture. Mauricio Conrado Meyer Graduate in Agronomy at State University of Ponta Grossa (1987), MSc in Phytopathology at University of Brasilia (1990) and PhD in Plant Protection at Sao Paulo State University Julio de Mesquita Filho (2001). Senior researcher at Embrapa Soybean (since 1989). Has experience in plant pathology, focusing on management of soybean diseases and breeding soybean cultivars for disease resistance. Contact Francismar C. Marcelino Guimarães EMBRAPA Soybean Campus Carlos João Strass Road (Orlando Amaral Access) - P.O. Box 231 - Postal Code 86001-970 - Londrina, PR - Brazil E-mail: francismar.marcelino@embrapa.br Phone:+55 43 3371-6000

Explore publications of scientific articles, patents, Thesis and Dissertations developed by INCT PlantStress Biotech. Publications Scientific Papers Patents Dissertations and Thesis

Postdoctoral and Graduate team Clidia Eduarda Moreira Pinto Postdoctoral Researcher Gabriele Louise Trindade Araújo Master's Student at Universidade Católica de Brasília Lorena Sousa de Loiola Costa Ph.D. Student at Universidade de Brasília Naiara Cordeiro Santos Master's Student at Universidade Católica de Brasília Thuanne Pires Ribeiro Postdoctoral Researcher Daniel David Noriega Vasquez Postdoctoral Researcher Gisele Pereira Domiciano Postdoctoral Researcher Luanna Pinheiro de A. Freitas Bezerra Ph.D. Student at Universidade Católica de Brasília Náttany Souza Costa Master's Student at Universidade de Brasília Valdeir Junio Vaz Moreira Ph.D. Student at Universidade de Brasília Débora Gonçalves Pereira Postdoctoral Researcher João Pedro Abreu Sousa Master's Student at Universidade Católica de Brasília Lays Antunes Teixeira Master's Student at Universidade Católica de Brasília Rangel de Freitas Alves Ph.D. Student at Universidade de Brasília Francisco Humberto Henrique Postdoctoral Researcher Julia Moura do Rosário Santana Master's Student at Universidade Católica de Brasília Mateus Meira dos Santos Biotechnologist Universidade de Brasília Stéfanie Menezes de Moura Postdoctoral Researcher

Learn more about AL02, its main goals within the project and meet the laboratory's work team. AL 02 - Transcriptomics, Epigenetics and Functional Genomics Laboratory Activities - PlantStress Biotech INCT Sequencing the genotype plant native species from Brazil (pitangueira). Sequencing of transcriptomes associated with the response to drought of native species in Brazil (wild peanuts, pitangueira, Clúsia, and cashew) by large-scale sequencing. Identify and select in silico candidate genes related to drought tolerance of native species (wild peanuts, pitangueira, Clúsia, and cashew). Identify InDels and SNPs in candidate genes of native species associated with the drought response (wild peanuts, pitangueira, and cashew). Validate in vitro the expression profile of candidate genes for drought tolerance obtained in native species of Brazil (wild peanuts, pitangueira, Clúsia, and cashew). Sequencing using the Illumina platform a fraction of small RNAs, and their target mRNAs, and circular RNAs of plants (Arachis, Musa, soybean, pitangueira, and cashew tree) submitted to biotic and/or abiotic stresses. Analyze the sequencing data to check the methylation status of gene promoters in the metabolic pathways of interest. Validate the function of plant genes potentially involved in drought tolerance mechanisms in Arabidopsis, rice or sepia plants through strategies of overexpression or silencing. Organize, maintain and share an in vivo bank of the innovation assets obtained in the project shared by INCT members. Laboratory Description Research efforts in our laboratory are focused on the prospecting and characterization of genes involved in the response of plants to biotic and abiotic stresses. Emphasis: Soybean (Glycine max ), Jackbean (Canavalia ensiformis ) and Solanum nigrum . Approaches: Analysis of gene expression; Gene silencing; Overexpression; Subcellular location of gene products. For genetic transformation, we mainly use particle bombardment, but we are gaining experience in Agrobacterium -mediated transformation. Embryogenic tissues are used as targets for transformation. Research Lines Response of native Neotropical plants and cultivated plants to abiotic stresses: drought and salinity. Identification of genes related to plant adaptation and tolerance to abiotic stresses. Characterization of the interaction network between microRNAs - circRNAs and mRNAs in the regulation of gene expression. Study of the mechanisms and quantification of mRNA editing events in chloroplasts in response to stresses. Our Team Rogerio Margis Team Leader Rogerio Margis completed his doctorate at the Institut de Biologie Moleculaire des Plantes, IBMP of CNRS, at the Université Louis Pasteur of Strasbourg I, France, in 1993. In 2002 he did a post-doctorate related to the processes of RNA interference and production of microRNAs in plants in the CSIRO's Plant Industry in Canberra, Australia. He is currently a CNPq researcher and Full Professor in the Department of Biophysics and Biotechnology Center at the Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul. Full member of the Brazilian Academy of Sciences since 2016. From 1994 to 2003 he was an adjunct professor at UFRJ. At UFRGS, he works as a permanent core researcher and advisor in the graduate programs in Genetics and Molecular Biology (PPGBM) and Cell and Molecular Biology (PPGBCM). Currently participates in research projects related to the themes: RNA interference processes, small RNAs and non-coding RNAs in rice, soybean and native Neotropical species; action of cysteine proteases and their inhibitors; proteins related to abiotic stresses (cold, drought and metals) and oxidative stress (APx and GPx). He works in the areas of Genetics and Biochemistry, with an emphasis on Molecular Biology: regulation of gene expression and molecular markers. In his professional activities, he interacted with more than a hundred national and international collaborators in projects and co-authorship of scientific works. Márcia Pinheiro Margis Graduated in Biological Sciences at the State University of Rio de Janeiro (1983), Master's degree in Biochemistry from the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (1987) and doctorate in Biologie Moleculaire Des Plantes - Universite de Strasbourg I - France (1993). Full Professor at the Department of Genetics at the Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul. She is a full member of the Brazilian Academy of Sciences. Full member of the CNPq Genetics Advisory Committee (CA-GE) between July 2011 and June 2014. She was a member of the board of the Brazilian Society of Genetics (SBG), having been first treasurer, first secretary, vice president, and president (2016 to 2018). Member of CTNBio between March 2012 and February 2014. Coordinator of the Graduate Programs in Genetics at the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (2000-2001) and the Federal University of Rio de Grande do Sul (2011 to 2015). Editor of the journal Genetics and Molecular Biology. President of the International Genetics Federation (since September 2018). She has experience in the field of Genetics, with an emphasis on Plant Genetics, working mainly on the following topics: defense responses of plants against abiotic stresses, antioxidant metabolism enzymes and functional plant genomics. Contact Rogerio Margis Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul - Department of Biophysics - Room 206 - LGPP Campus do Vale, Bento Gonçalves Avenue 9500, Building 4342212, Postal Code 91501-910, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil E-mail: rogerio.margis@ufrgs.br Phone number: +55 51 3008-6234

Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology. Parque Estação Biológica - PqEB - W5 Norte Avenue (end) P.O. Box 02372 - Brasília, DF - Brazil - Postal Code 70770-917. Phone number: +55 61 3448-4902 Contact Coordinator: Maria Fatima Grossi-de-Sa Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology Parque Estação Biológica - PqEB - W5 Norte Avenue (end) P.O. Box 02372 - Brasília, DF - Brazil - Postal Code 70770-917 Phone number: +55 61 3448-4902 E-mail: fatima.grossi@embrapa.br /inctplantstresssite@gmail.com You can also contact us by filling this contact form: First Name Last Name Email Phone Subject Message Submit Thanks for submitting!

Get to know all the 15 associated laboratories (AL) who develop INCT PlantStress Biotech projects. Associated Laboratories (ALs) AL 01- Genomics and Proteomics Team Leader: Robert N. G. Miller (UnB) Partner Institutions: UnB, Embrapa Cenargen AL 02 - Transcriptomics, Epigenetics and Functional Genomics Team Leader: Rogério Margis (UFRGS) Partner Institutions: UFRGS, UFRJ, Embrapa Cenargen AL 03 - Molecular Genetics Team Leader: Márcio Alves-Ferreira (UFRJ) Partner Institutions: UFRJ, Embrapa Cenargen AL 04 - Molecular Physiology Team Leader: Joaquim A. G. Silveira (UFC) Partner Institutions: UFC, UFPel, Embrapa Clima Temperado AL 05 - Plant-Pest Interaction Team Leader: Patrícia Messenberg Guimarães (Embrapa Cenargen) Partner Institutions: Embrapa Cenargen, Embrapa Soja, Embrapa Cerrados, Embrapa Arroz e Feijão, Embrapa Milho e Sorgo AL 06 - Bioinformatics Roberto Coiti Togawa (Embrapa Cenargen) Partner Institutions: Embrapa Cenargen, UnB, UFPel AL 07 - Insects-Nematodes: Creation and Bioassays Team Leader: Leonardo Pepino (Embrapa Cenargen) Partner Institutions: Embrapa Cenargen, Embrapa Soja, Embrapa Milho e Sorgo AL 08 - Plant Transformation - Soybean Team Leader: Maria Helena Zanettini (UFRGS) Partner Institutions: UFRGS AL 09 - Plant Transformation - Cotton Team Leader: Maria Fátima Grossi-de-Sa (Embrapa Cenargen) Partner Institutions: Embrapa Cenargen AL 10 - Plant Transformation - Corn Team Leader: Newton Carneiro (Embrapa Milho e Sorgo) Partner Institutions: Embrapa Milho e Sorgo AL 11 - Biometrics Team Leader: Antônio C. de Oliveira (UFPel) Partner Institutions: UFPel AL 12 - Evaluation of Environmental Risks Carmen Pires (Embrapa Cenargen) Angharad Gatehouse (Newcastle University) Partner Institution: Embrapa Cenargen e Newcastle University AL 13 - Field Phenotyping - Public Sector Team Leader: Jaime Cavalcanti (Embrapa Algodão) Partner Institutions: Embrapa Soja, Embrapa Milho e Sorgo, Embrapa Algodão, Embrapa Clima Temperado AL 14 - Field Phenotyping - Private Sector Team Leader: Rafael Galbieri (IMAmt) Partner Institutions: IMAmt - Instituto Matogrossense do Algodão AL 15 - Molecular Plant-Pathogen Interaction Team Leader: Francismar C. Marcelino Guimarães (Embrapa Soja) Partner Institutions: Embrapa Soja AL 16 - Biotechnological Applications of Microorganisms Team Leader: Maite Vaslin de Freitas Silva (UFRJ) Partner Institutions: Federal University of Rio de Janeiro

Find here the events organized by INCT PlantStress Biotech and participate! Events Organization Workshops with the INCT-PlantStress-Biotech team , held in February/2022. Member of international committee XXVIII Plant and Animal Genome Conference , San Diego, CA, EUA, Antônio C. de Oliveira, held from 11 to 18 January 2020. Member of international committee ISRFG 2019 , Taipei, Taiwan, Antônio C. de Oliveira, held from 4 to 6 November 2019. Workshops with the INCT-PlantStress-Biotech team , held in April/2017, December/2018 and May/2019. Organization of the 7th Brazilian Congress of Biotechnology , organized by SBBIOTEC (Brazilian Society of Biotechnology), whose current president is Dr. Maria Fatima Grossi-de-Sá, held from 18 to 21 November 2018.

Learn more about AL12, its main goals within the project and meet the laboratory's work team. AL 12 - Colaboration Lab Laboratory Activities - PlantStress Biotech INCT Organize, maintain and share an in vivo bank of the innovation assets obtained in the project shared by INCT members. Carmen S. Soares Pires Team Leader Dr. Carmen is undergraduated in Biology from the Federal University of Viçosa (1984), holds a master's degree in Entomology from the same university and a Ph.D in Biology fomr the Northern Arizona University (1998). She has been a researcher at Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology since 1989. She has experience in Ecology, with amphasis on Insect Ecology, working mainly o the following topics: population dynamics, plant-insect pest-natural enemies interaction, conservative biological control and pollination in agroecosystems. Since 2003, she has been involved in environmental risk analysis projects of stressors on non-target organisms (predatory insects, pollinators and non-target herbivores). Angharad MR Gatehouse Team Leader Prof Angharad Gatehouse has the Chair of Invertebrate Molecular Biology at Newcastle University and is Director of Expertise for BioEconomy. Her research focuses on the molecular and biochemical bases of plant-pest interactions with a view to developing novel strategies for crop protection. Her group was one of the first to produce insect-resistant transgenic crops. More recently her group has been using functional genomics to better understand the molecular responses of crops to biotic stress (pathogens and insect pests) for the development of molecular markers. In collaboration with Durham University, her group are actively involved in developing novel biopesticides including those based on RNAi. In addition to their efficacy, the group is also involved in the biosafety of these strategies, notably in terms of their potential effects on beneficial insects such as pollinators and natural enemies. She has published extensively in the field, including in discovery journals (Nature, PNAS). Contact Carmen S. Soares Pires Embrapa - Recursos Genéticos e Biotecnologia Parque Estação Biológica - PqEB, s/n, Brasília - DF carmen.pires@embrapa.br +55 61 3448-4433 Angharad MR Gatehouse School of Natural and Environmental Sciences - Newcastle University, Ridley Building. a.m.r.gatehouse@ncl.ac.uk +44 (0) 191 208 8838

Learn more about AL06, its main goals within the project and meet the laboratory's work team. AL 06 - Bioinformatics Laboratory Activities - PlantStress Biotech INCT Select vital genes/molecules for gall nematodes (Meloidogyne spp.) by analyzing their genome. Select potential genes involved in resistance from contrasting genotypes (peanuts soybean, rice, cotton and coffee). Integrate legume transcriptome data (beans, soybean and peanuts) submitted to water deficit, generated by mass sequencing (Illumina – HiSeq) in previous projects. Integrate monocotyledonous transcriptome data (rice, corn, wheat, Musa and Sorghum ) submitted to water deficit, generated by mass sequencing (Illumina – HiSeq) in previous projects. Integrate transcriptome data from resistant genotypes (beans, soybean, rice, coffee and peanuts) infected by nematodes, generated by mass sequencing (Illumina – HiSeq) in previous projects. Sequence on the Illumina platform a fraction of small RNAs, and their target mRNAs, and circular RNAs of plants (Arachis , Musa, soybean, pitangueira and cashew tree) subjected to biotic and/or abiotic stresses. Analyze sequencing data to check methylation status of gene promoters in the metabolic pathways of interest. Organize an in silico database cured and shared by INCT members. Organize, maintain and share an in vivo bank of the innovation assets obtained in the project shared by INCT members. Our Team Roberto Coiti Togawa Team Leader Graduated in Data Processing from the University of Brasília (1984) and doctorate from the University of Bedfordshire (United Kingdom) (2006). He worked for several years in the area of basic software support and systems development. He is currently a research analyst at Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology. Has experience in Computer Science, with emphasis on Programming Languages, working mainly on the following topics: Development of analysis tools for genomic sequences, Analysis of NGS sequences. Development of analysis tools for protein structures, structural bioinformatics, Development of prediction and analysis tools for Membrane Proteins. Priscila Grynberg She holds a degree in Biological Sciences from the Federal University of Minas Gerais - UFMG (2004), a master's degree in Parasitology from UFMG (2007) and a PhD in Bioinformatics from UFMG (2011). She is currently Researcher A at Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology - Cenargen. Operates in research projects of functional analysis of gene expression and differential proteomics data, large-scale sequencing of microRNAs and data mining. In 2007, she was awarded the Samuel Pessoa Medal at the 20th Brazilian Congress of Parasitology, when she won first place with a work that associated non-synonymous polymorphisms in the apical membrane protein 1 of Plasmodium vivax (PvAMA-1) with the platelet count in patients infected. She is part of the executive committee of the Brazilian Association of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology (AB3C). Contact Roberto Coiti Togawa EMBRAPA Genetic Resources and Biotechnology W5 Norte Avenue (end) - P.O. Box 02372 - Postal Code 70770-917 - Brasília, DF - Brazil E-mail: roberto.togawa@embrapa.br

Learn more about AL09, its main goals within the project and meet the laboratory's work team. AL 09 - Plant Transformation - Cotton Laboratory Activities - PlantStress Biotech INCT Searching for vital insect-pest genes/molecules (Helicoverpa armigera and Spodoptera frugiperda ), using large-scale sequencing of their transcriptome and in vitro validation of gene expression. S election of new Cry molecules with high toxic activity against S. frugiperda and H. armigera . In silico identification of target molecules against insects and nematodes, through the design of specific chemical drugs for the development of new insecticides and nematicides. Analysis of the genome of Meloidogyne spp. for the selection of genes/molecules vital for gall formation. Selection of potential genes involved in the resistance of contrasting genotypes (peanuts, soybean, rice, cotton, and coffee). Integration of monocotyledonous transcriptome data (rice, corn, wheat, Musa spp., and Sorghum spp.) submitted to water deficit, generated by mass sequencing (Illumina – HiSeq) in previous projects. Integration of transcriptome data from drought-tolerant genotypes from Musa spp., Arachis spp., and cowpea submitted to water deficit combined with biotic stress (Meloidogyne spp. or Mycosphaerella ) in bioassays. Use of qRT-PCR for validation of key genes expression from metabolic pathways related to plant responses to combined stresses (biotic-biotic, biotic-biotic, abiotic-biotic). Search and validation of novel regulatory sequences (promoters) responsive to biotic and abiotic stresses, in crop plants, using transient and stable transformation (soybeans, cotton, and maize). Sequencing and selection of plant small RNAs, mRNAs, and circular RNAs (Arachis spp. , Musa spp. , soybean, pitangueira, cashew tree) submitted to biotic and/or abiotic stresses, using the Illumina platform. Validation of plant genes function, potentially involved in nematode resistance mechanisms, through molecules overexpression or gene silencing (RNAi) strategies. Validation of nematode genes function, potentially involved in the parasitism mechanisms, through RNAi strategies in model systems. Assessment and monitoring technology of biotech assets prospected for intellectual protection. Development of universal vectors containing all prospected and patented genetic elements by different institutions from the INCT Project. National and international protection of genes and regulatory sequences, via patents. Developing of GM soybean, cotton, and maize plants through overexpression of molecules and/or gene silencing strategies for drought tolerance and nematode resistance. Developing of GM soybean, cotton, and corn plants through overexpressing Bt toxin and dsRNAs sequences applied to H. armigera and S. frugiperda control. Functional validation of multiple pyramided genes involved in multiple traits, including nematodes and insect-pests (S. frugiperda or H. armigera ) resistance and drought tolerance in GM soybean and cotton plants. Phenotyping (greenhouse and/or field simulation) GM maize, soybean, and cotton plants for drought tolerance and/or resistance to S. frugiperda , H. armigera and Meloidogyne spp. Laboratory Description The Plant-Pest Molecular Interaction Laboratory (LIMPP) is coordinated by Dr. Maria Fatima Grossi-de-Sa. Research interests include both basic and applied sciences, focusing on plant-pest molecular interactions (pathogens and insect-pests) to develop novel crop protection strategies, especially for cotton and soybean. The LIMPP group’s research is known for its expertise in plant biotechnology using functional genomics, notably working on biotechnological aspects of RNA interfering (RNAi) mechanism applied to insect-pests and phytonematodes. Other current research interests include exploring new technologies for plant genetic transformation and genome editing, novel regulatory sequences for genetic engineering of crop plants for protection against insect-pests and phytonematodes, drought tolerance, and development of recombinant proteins. Research Lines Search for novel genes/molecules and peptides to be applied on the control of cotton and soybean insect-pests. Search for target genes/molecules of plant parasitic nematodes (Meloidogyne spp., Rotylenchus reniformis , Aphelenchoides spp.) to be applied in gene silencing approaches. Genetic engineering of crop plants using genome editing technologies and target genes/molecules of contrasting soybean genotypes (resistant/susceptible to Meloidogyne spp.). Search for genes/molecules and small RNAs in pest-resistance and drought-tolerant plant genotypes potentialy involved in the response to biotic and abiotic stresses (cross-stress). Validation of novel prospected biotech assets using overexpression of molecules or gene silencing approaches in plant models. Genetic engineering development of crop plants (cotton, soybean, sugarcane) using molecules/dsRNAs overexpression, gene silencing, and genome editing approaches for traits that include pest control, increase in biomass, and drought tolerance. Recent Publications ATELLA, A. L.; Grossi-de-Sa, M. F.; Alves-Ferreira, M. (2023). Cotton promoters for controlled gene expression. Electronic Journal of Biotechnology, v. 62, p. 10.1016/j.ejbt. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ejbt.2022.12.002 BASSO, M. F.; Lourenço-Tessutti, I. T.; Moreira-Pinto, C. E.; Mendes, R. A. G.; Pereira, D. G.; Grandis, A.; Macedo, L. L. P.; Macedo, A. F.; Gomes, A. C. M. M.; Arraes, F. B. M.; Togawa, R. C.; do Carmo Costa, M. M.; Marcelino-Guimaraes, F. C.; Silva, M. C. M.; Floh, E. I. S.; Buckeridge, M. S., de Almeida Engler, J., Grossi-de-Sa, M. F. (2023) . Overexpression of the GmEXPA1 gene reduces plant susceptibility to Meloidogyne incognita . Plant Cell Report , v. 42, n. 1, p. 137-152. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00299-022-02941-3 FONSECA, F. C. A.; Antonino, J. D.; de Moura, S. M.; Rodrigues-Silva, P. L.; Macedo, L. L. P.; Gomes Júnior, J. E.; Lourenço-Tessuti, I. T.; Lucena, W. A.; Morgante, C. V.; Ribeiro, T. P.; Monnerat, R. G.; Rodrigues, M. A.; Cuccovia, I. M.; Mattar Silva, M. C.; Grossi-de-Sa, M. F. (2023) . In vivo and in silico comparison analyses of Cry toxin activities toward the sugarcane giant borer. Bulletin of Entomological Research, v. 8, p. 1-12. https://doi.org/10.1017/S000748532200061X MOREIRA, V. J. V.; Pinheiro D. H.; Lourenço-Tessuti, I. T.; Basso, M. F. ; Lisei-de-Sá, M. E.; Silva, M. C. M.; Danchin, E. G. J. ; Guimarães, P. M.; Grynberg, P.; Brasileiro, A. C. M.; Macedo, L. L. P.; Morgante, C. V.; Engler, J. A.; Grossi-de-Sá, M. F. (2023) . In planta RNAi targeting Meloidogyne incognita Minc16803 gene perturbs nematode parasitism and reduces plant susceptibility. Journal of Pest Science , v. 1, p. 1. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10340-023-01623-7 NIZOLLI, V. O.; Oliveira, V. F.; Maia, L. C.; Pegoraro, C.; Oliveira, A. C. (2023) . Genome editing in rice: New paths for an old crop. Perspectives In Agriculture, Veterinary Science, Nutrition And Natural Resources, v. 2023, p. 1-8. http://dx.doi.org/10.1079/cabireviews.2023.0008 PEREIRA, B. M.; Arraes, F.; Martins, A. C. Q.; Alves, N. S. F.; Melo, B. P.; Morgante, C. V.; Saraiva, M. A. P.; Grossi-de-Sá, M. F.; Guimarães, P. M.; Brasileiro, A. C. M. (2023). A novel soybean hairy root system for gene functional validation. PLoS One, v. 18, p. e0285504. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0285504 TRENZ, T. S.; Turchetto-Zolet, A. C.; Margis, R.; Margis-Pinheiro, M.; Maraschin, F. S. (2023) . Functional analysis of alternative castor bean DGAT enzymes. Genetics and Molecular Biology (Online Version), v. 46, p . 1-12. https://doi.org/10.1590/1678-4685-GMB-2022-0097 VASQUEZ, D. D. N.; Pinheiro, D. H.; Teixeira, L. A.; Moreira-Pinto, C. E.; Macedo, L. L. P.; Salles-Filho, A. L. O.; Silva, M. C. M.; Lourenço-Tessutti, I. T.; Morgante, C. V.; Silva, L. P.; Grossi-de-Sa, M. F. (2023). Simultaneous silencing of juvenile hormone metabolism genes through RNAi interrupts metamorphosis in the cotton boll weebil. Frontiers in Molecular Biosciences, v. 10, p. 1073721. https://doi.org/10.3389/fmolb.2023.1073721 ARRAES, F. B. M.; Vasquez, D. D. N.; Tahir, M.; Pinheiro, D. H.; Faheem, M.; Freitas-Alves, N. S.; Moreira-Pinto, C. E.; Moreira, V. J. V.; Paes-de-Melo, B.; Lisei-de-Sá, M. E.; Morgante, C. V.; Mota, A. P. Z.; Lourenço-Tessutti, I. T.; Togawa, R. C.; Grynberg, P.; Fragoso, R. R.; de Almeida-Engler, J.; Larsen Martin, R.; Grossi-de-Sa, M. F. (2022) . 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Evolutionarily conserved plant genes responsive to root-knot nematodes identified by comparative genomics. Molecular Genetics and Genomics , v. 295, p. 1063-1078. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00438-020-01677-7 . MOURA, S.M.; Rossi, M.L.; Artico, S.; Grossi-de-Sa, M.F.; Martinelli, A.P.; Alves-Ferreira, M. (2020) . Characterization of floral morphoanatomy and identification of marker genes preferentially expressed during specific stages of cotton flower development. Planta , v. 252(4), p. 71. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00425-020-03477-0 . NORIEGA-VASQUEZ, D.D.; Arraes, F.B.M.; Antonino, J.D.; Macedo, L.L.P.; Fonseca, F.C.A.; Togawa, R.C.; Grynberg, P.; Silva, M.C.M.; Negrisoli, A.S.; Grossi-de-Sa, M.F. (2020) . Transcriptome analysis and knockdown of the juvenile hormone esterase gene reveal abnormal feeding behavior in the sugarcane giant borer. Frontiers in Physiology , v. 11, p. 588450. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphys.2020.588450 . NORIEGA-VASQUEZ, D.D.; Arraes, F.B.M.; Antonino, J.D.; Macedo, L.L.P.; Fonseca, F.C.A.; Togawa, R.C.; Grynberg, P.; Silva, M.C.M.; Negrisoli, A.S.; Morgante, C.V.; Grossi-de-Sa, M.F. (2020) . Comparative gut transcriptome analysis of Diatraea saccharalis in response to the dietary source. PLoS One , v. 15(8), p. e0235575. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0235575 . PAES-MELO, B.; Lourenço-Tessutti, I.T.; Morgante, C.V.; Santos, N.C.; Pinheiro, L.B.; Jesus-Lins, C.B.; Silva, M.C.M.; Macedo, L.L.P.; Fontes, E.P.B.; Grossi-de-Sa, M.F. (2020) . Soybean embryonic axis transformation: combining biolistic and Agrobacterium -mediated protocols to overcome typical complications of in vitro plant regeneration. Frontiers in Plant Science , v. 11, p. 1228. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpls.2020.01228 . PAES-MELO, B.; Lourenço-Tessutti, I.T.; Paixao, J.F.R.; Noriega-Vasquez, D.D.; Silva, M.C.M.; Almeida-Engler, J.; Fontes, E.P.B.; Grossi-de-Sa, M.F. (2020) . Transcriptional modulation of AREB-1 by CRISPRa improves plant physiological performance under severe water deficit. Scientific Reports , v. 10(1), p. 16231. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-020-72464-y . RIBEIRO, T.P.; Basso, M.F.; Carvalho, M.H.; Macedo, L.L.P.; Silva, D.M.L.S.; Lourenço-Tessutti, I.T.; Oliveira-Neto, O.B.; Romano, E.; Lucena, W.A.; Silva, M.C.M.; Tripode, B.M.D.; Abreu-Jardin, T.P.F.; Miranda, J.E.; Alves-Ferreira, M.; Morgante, C.V.; Grossi-de-Sa, M.F. (2020) . Stability and tissue-specific Cry10Aa overexpression improves cotton resistance to the cotton boll weevil. Biotechnology Research & Innovation , v. 3, p. 15. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biori.2019.12.003 . SANTOS, C.; Nogueira, F.C.S.; Domont, G.B.; Fontes, W.; Prado, G.S.; Habibi, P.; Santos, V.O.; Oliveira-Neto, O.B.; Grossi-de-Sa, M.F.; Jorrín-Novo, J.V.; Franco, O.L.; Mehta, A. (2020) . Proteomic analysis and functional validation of a Brassica oleracea endochitinase involved in resistance to Xanthomonas campestres . Frontiers in Plant Science , v. 11, p. 201. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpls.2019.00414 . Our Team Maria Fatima Grossi-de-Sa Team Leader Maria Fatima Grossi-de-Sa holds a bachelor's degree in Biological Sciences - biomedicine modality from the University of Brasilia (1979), a master's degree in Biological Sciences (Molecular Biology) from the University of Brasilia (1982), a doctorate (Doctorat Et Sciences) in Molecular Biology from the Université Paris VII-France (1987), and was a postdoctoral fellow at the Plant Genetic System-Ghent-Belgium (1988) and at the University of California in San Diego (1995-1996). She is the Lead Researcher at EMBRAPA Genetic Resources and Biotechnology (since 1989) and professor at the Catholic University of Brasília (since 2004). She is a CNPq productivity fellow (level 1A), member of CAPES International Advisory Committee (since 2007), full member (Agrarian Sciences) of the Brazilian Academy of Sciences (elected in 2011) and a member of the World Academy of Science -TWAS (elected in 2014). Among other awards and honors, she notably received the Scopus Award 2010 (Elsevier / CAPES) and the medal of the National Order of Scientific Merit (2018). She held the position of coordinator at the Biotechnology area and alternate member of CTC-ES at CAPES (2007-2014), and the presidency of the Brazilian Society of Biotechnology - SBBiotec (2008-2013 and 2016-current). She has experience in the field of Plant Genetics and Biotechnology, with an emphasis on Genetic Engineering and Plant Molecular Biology. The primary focus of her research is on the development of biotechnological products, using different strategies, including genome editing, aiming to increase tolerance and resistance to biotic and abiotic stress in plants. Morevoer, biotechnological tools are applied for the development of biopharmaceuticals. Her main research fields include: plant defense proteins, insecticidal proteins, plant-pest molecular interaction, and biotechnological assets applied to agribusiness. Carolina Vianna Morgante She is undergraduated in Biological Sciences at University of Sao Paulo - Biosciences Institute (1999). Carolina Morgante holds a master's and doctorate's degrees in Agronomy (Genetics and Plant Breeding) from the University of São Paulo (2003 and 2008, respectively). She is currently a researcher at Embrapa Semiárido and has experience in Genetics, focusing on Plant Genetics and Molecular. Diana Isolda Clotilde Fernandez She is currently a permanent Senior researcher at the French Research Institute for Development - Institut de Recherche pour le Développement (IRD, France) and remained until November 2020 at Embrapa-Cenargen. She has experience in Biochemistry, with emphasis on Molecular Biology, working on the following subjects: phytopathology, plant-pathogen interactions, plant immunity, nematodes, rust, rice, Coffea arabica , Hemileia vastatrix , Meloidogyne spp. Isabela Tristan Lourenço Tessutti Isabela is undergraduated in Biological Sciences from the University of Brasilia (2006), and holds a master's and a doctorate's degree in Molecular Biology from the same University (2008 and 2014, respectively). She was a post-doctoral fellow (2020) at the Institut National de Recherche pour l'Agriculture , l'Alimentation et l'Envrionment (INRA - Sophia Antipolis/France). Recently, she works at the Plant-Pest Interaction Laboratory at Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, coordinated by Dr. Maria Fatima Gross-de-Sa. Her main research fields are: plant-pest interaction, plant resistance to biotic stress (nematodes and insects), and tolerance to abiotic stress (drought). She has expertise in: functional genomics for phytonematodes, insects, plants and bacteria; plant genetic transformation; gene (RNAi) silencing; heterologus expression of proteins using bacterial cells; functional characterization of plant promoters; spacial and temporal determinarion of gene expression using real-time PCR; genome editing using CRISPR methodology for biomass increase, drought tolerance and pest resistance. Leonardo Lima Pepino de Macedo Leonardo is undergraduated in Biological Sciences from the Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte (2005). He holds a master degree in Biochemistry from the same University (2007) and a doctorate's degree in Genomic Sciences and Biotechnology from the Catholic University of Brasília (2012). He has experience in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, with expertise in the following areas: cloning and expression of proteins in heterologous systems; bioprospecting proteins with entomotoxic activity (vicillins, lectins, proteinase inhibitors and Cry toxins) aiming at the control of dipterous, lepidopteran and coleopteran insects; development of gene silencing strategies via RNAi for the control of insect pests. Maria Eugenia Lisei de Sa Maria Eugenia is undergraduated in Biological Sciences from Faculdades Metodistas Integradas Isabela Hendrix (1981), Master in Agronomy (Phytotechnics) from the Universidade Federal do Ceará (1984), PhD in Genetics and Biochemistry from the Universidade Federal de Uberlândia (2004) and post-doctorate fellow in Biotechnology at the Institute de Recherche pour le Développement-França (2013). She is Researcher (II) at the Minas Gerais Agricultural Research Corporation (EPAMIG) and currently works as a collaborative researcher at Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology -Cenargen. He has experience in the field of soybean breeding, with an emphasis on the development of soybean cultivars with characteristics suitable for human consumption. Her expertise lies on plant defense proteins (proteinase inhibitors, alpha-amylase inhibitors, lectins, defensins, osmotins); plant-pest molecular interaction; development of genetically modified plants for resistance to biotic stress (insects and nematodes) and tolerance to abiotic stress. Maria Cristina Mattar da Silva Maria Cristina is undergraduated in Biological Sciences from the Universidade Estadual Paulista Júlio de Mesquita Filho (1984) and from Universidade de Brasília (1987). She holds a master's degree in Biological Sciences (Molecular Biology) from the Universidade de Brasília (1992) and a doctorate's degree in Biological Sciences (Molecular Biology) from University of Brasília (2002). She is a Researcher at Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology since 1989. She is expert in plant molecular biology, working in the field of plant biotechnology for biotic and abiotic stress. The main focus of her researches are: evolution of molecules in vitro for selection of variants with improved activity; molecular studies of plant-pest interaction for insect resistance. Currently, she is a Member of the Brazilian Society of Biotechnology. FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR TEAM Contact Maria Fatima Grossi de Sá EMBRAPA Genetic Resources and Biotechnology W5 Norte Avenue (end) - P.O. Box 02372 - Postal Code 70770-917 - Brasília, DF - Brazil E-mail: fatima.grossi@embrapa.br Phone number: +55 61 3448-4705