SG LAB

Plant Genomics

Background

Genomics, transcriptomics, and metagenomics are crucial in plant science as they provide comprehensive insights into the genetic makeup, gene expression patterns, and microbial interactions within plants. Genomics allows researchers to decode the entire genetic blueprint of plants, aiding in the identification of genes responsible for traits like disease resistance and stress tolerance. Transcriptomics offers a snapshot of gene activity under various conditions, enabling the study of gene regulation and expression. Metagenomics reveals the complex microbial communities associated with plants, shedding light on the plant microbiome’s role in growth, health, and resilience.

Objectives of the Work

Our lab has significantly contributed to these fields, particularly in applying these advanced techniques to understand plant-microbe interactions and develop sustainable agricultural practices. Our research has advanced our knowledge of plant genomics and the role of microbial communities in plant health, paving the way for innovations in crop improvement and environmental sustainability.

Case Study 1

PI: Dr. Debleena Roy, Lady Brabourne College (Kolkata)

Lawsonia inermis (Mehendi)

Lawsonia inermis L., commonly known as Henna plant, have been reported to be useful both medicinally and commercially. The phytochemical extract of this plant leaves have been reported to be a rich source of phenols, glycosides, anthraquinones and many other active constituents. Therapeutically, this plant has been used to treat diabetes, arthritis, obesity, ulcers, wounds, microbial infections, inflammation and liver damage. The extracts have also been instrumental in lowering blood sugar and cholesterol levels in mice. But one of the most crucial aspects of this plant is, limiting the growth of malignant cells. Extracts have shown apoptosis promoting activity in human cancer cell lines like breast cancer cells. The pigment lawsone, is commercially used on a large scale, as a dying agent for fabrics and skin. This component has shown potential role in reducing oxidative burst in cell, hence, establishing its role as an antioxidant, which should help researchers to manipulate the property, for establishing new potential drugs against cancer. Apart from “Lawsone” the small molecule reservoir of Lawsonia inermis L. have not been commercially utilized effectively and in the future these bioactive compound set should be explored for formulating new chemical entities.

Vigna mungo transcriptome profiling

Mungbean Yellow Mosaic India Virus (MYMIV)-infection creates major hindrance in V. mungo cultivation and poses significant threat to other grain legume production. Symptoms associated include severe patho-physiological alterations characterized by chlorotic foliar lesion accompanied by reduced growth. However, dissection of the host’s defense machinery remains a tough challenge due to limited of host’s genomic resources. A comparative RNA-Seq transcriptomes of resistant (VM84) and susceptible (T9) plants was carried out to identify genes potentially involved in V. mungo resistance against MYMIV. Distinct gene expression landscapes were observed in VM84 and T9 with 2158 and 1679 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), respectively. Transcriptomic responses in VM84 reflect a prompt and intense immune reaction demonstrating an efficient pathogen surveillance leading to activation of basal and induced immune responses. Functional analysis of the altered DEGs identified multiple regulatory pathways to be activated or repressed over time. Up-regulation of DEGs including NB-LRR, WRKY33, ankyrin, argonaute and NAC transcription factor revealed an insight on their potential roles in MYMIV-resistance; and qPCR validation shows a propensity of their accumulation in VM84. Analyses of the current RNA-Seq dataset contribute immensely to decipher molecular responses that underlie MYMIV-resistance and will aid in the improvement strategy of V. mungo and other legumes through comparative functional genomics.

Case Study 2

PI: Prof. Amita Pal, Bose Institute, Kolkata
Dr. Anirban Kundu, Assistant Professor, RKMVC, Rahara

Case Study 3

Endophytic consortia in rice refer to the diverse communities of beneficial microorganisms, including bacteria and fungi that live within the plant tissues without causing harm. These endophytes play a critical role in enhancing plant growth, increasing resistance to pathogens, and improving stress tolerance. Our group has made notable contributions to understanding and harnessing these endophytic communities in rice. We have revealed how specific endophytic bacteria and fungi interact with rice plants, leading to improved nutrient uptake, growth promotion, and resilience against environmental stresses. Key findings from his publications include the identification of novel endophytic strains that can significantly boost rice yield and protect against diseases, offering promising strategies for sustainable rice cultivation.

Research Team

  • Prof. Amita Pal (Emeritus Scientist, Bose Institute, Kolkata)
  • Prof Pratiti Ghosh (Professor, WBSU)
  • Dr. Debleena Roy (Lady Brabourne College, Kolkata)
  • Dr. Subhadeepa Sengupta (Bidhannagar College, Kolkata)
  • Dr. Anirban Kundu (RKMVC, Rahara)
  • Dr. Pankaj K Singh ( Western Sydney University)
  • Dr. Sayak Ganguli (SXC_Kolkata)

Interns

  • Saptaki De (BMBT – SXC, Kolkata)
  • Saptarshi Bhattacharya (BMBT – SXC, Kolkata)
  • Mahima Chaudhury (VIT, Vellore)

Project Duration

  • Open ended
  • Funding: PUPA and SXC Intramural; Several Completed Projects under State and Central Funding Agencies.