John Labavitch, Carl Greve and associates

1
John Labavitch, Carl Greve and associates Our
primary research themes center around studies of
interesting aspects of plant development that
include a central role for the metabolism of cell
walls. Specific topics include Cell wall
polysaccharide change in relationship to ripe
fruit texture and the consistency characteristics
of processed fruits (mainly tomatoes) The
interactions of fungal pathogens with fruit and
other plant parts - a focus is on
pectin-degrading enzymes (called PGs) and their
inhibition by plant proteins that are
PG-inhibiting proteins (PGIPs). Expression og
pear fruit PGIP genes in tomatoes enhances the
fruit resistance to grey mold (Botrytis cinerea).
We also are working on Pierces Disease.
2
We also are studying plant-insect interactions
(specifically lygus bug interaction with alfalfa,
cotton and tomato and glassy-winged sharpshooter
interactions with grapevines). Here the focus
also involves the interaction of PG enzymes (from
the insect) and plant PGIPs. In relationship to
the fruit and vegetable quality project Our
primary contribution will be in developing
protocols for analysis of important fruit and
vegetable chemicals that are contributors to the
foods flavor, aroma or nutritional quality. We
are are also involved in a proposal that will
look at specific aspects of a strawberrys
phytochemicals that may be beneficial in reducing
specific human health problems