Project Number: 6435-41420-004-01
Project Type: Specific C/A

Start Date: Apr 12, 2001
End Date: Jul 09, 2005

Objective:
(1) To investigate regulation of aflatoxin biosynthesis by examining AflJ protein interaction with other factors, and (2) elucidating lipid signaling between seed and Aspergillus.

Approach:
(1) Investigate the function of the aflJ gene and the mechanism(s) of the AflJ protein in promoting aflatoxin biosynthesis through mutagenesis and protein-protein interaction assays. Identify protein factor(s) that interact with the AflJ protein. Cooperative study with USDA-ARS, New Orleans. (2) Identify the lipid metabolism genes that are inducted and suppressed in the Aspergillus/seed interaction via transcriptional profiling. Eliminate the Aspergillus spore inducing and aflatoxin inducing seed lipids (e.g. 9 hydroperoxy linoleic acid) and/or introduce Aspergillus aflatoxin inhibiting seed lipids (e.g. 13 hydroperoxy linoleic acid) in cooperation with ARS with plant transformation skills.

Project Team

Chang, Perng Kuang Nancy Keller - Professor (504)286-4208

Project Annual Reports

FY 2003   FY 2002   FY 2001

Related National Programs

Food Safety, (animal and plant products) (108)