Investigating how cell division influences decision-making in plants
SLCU researchers Sarah Robinson and James Locke are joining forces to explore a long-debated theory on whether plant development is organised at the cellular scale (cell-theory) or organ scale (organism theory).
Identifying the master regulators of photosynthetic cell identity
SLCU’s Chris Whitewoods has received a BBSRC Pioneer Award to advance our understanding of the formation of internal leaf structure and to explore the potential for engineering plants with higher photosynthesis and water use efficiency.
How new plant cell walls change their mechanical properties after cell division
Scientists reveal new plant cell walls can have significantly different mechanical properties compared to surrounding parental cell walls, enabling cells to change their local shape and influence the growth of plant organs.
Conversations with plants: Can we provide plants with advance warning of impending dangers?
Highlighter provides target gene control at cellular resolution. The Jones team implemented the system to demonstrate optogenetic control over plant immunity and pigment production through modulation of the spectral composition of broadband visible (white) light.
By adding a naturally-occurring polymer that makes wood more porous, scientists have engineered trees easier to disassemble into simpler building blocks.
Funding to advance strategy that promises long-lasting disease resistance against multiple root rot pathogens in barley Sainsbury Laboratory Cambridge University (SLCU) has received funding from the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) to advance fundamental research to develop broad root disease...
Dry days trigger leaves to send a surprising growth signal telling roots to keep growing
Scientists at the Sainsbury Laboratory Cambridge University (SLCU) have discovered a new molecular signalling pathway, triggered when leaves are exposed to low humidity, that ensures plant roots keep growing towards water.
Mechanical interactions between cell layers control growth in the stems of two wildly different plant species
Confocal image of Arabiopsis hypocotyl treated with brassinosteroid inhibitor. The seedling shows cracks appearing in the epidermis. Image by James Fitzsimons. Internal twists in a mutant carnivorous plant reveal how genes control growth coordination via tissue mechanics An aquatic carnivorous plant has helped to explain...
Professor of Quantitative Plant Development appointed
Dr James Locke has been appointed as the Professor of Quantitative Plant Development at the University of Cambridge, a new single tenure professorship that will build on the University’s strengths in plant science research.
Join the Sainsbury Laboratory Cambridge University (SLCU) at this year's Festival of Plants on Saturday 10 June 10:00 - 17:00. The Cambridge University Botanic Garden's annual Festival of Plants is a day for exploring the wonderful world of plants
