Project Number: 6208-21000-012-07
Project Type: Reimbursable

Start Date: Jan 01, 2004
End Date: Dec 31, 2004

Objective:
The proposed research will: 1) identify metabolic responses to water-deficit and temperature stress; 2) characterize natural tolerance mechanisms to water-deficit and thermal stress; and 3) determine crop responses to water-deficit and thermal stresses in the field.

Approach:
Water-deficit stress and stress from both low and high temperatures are the major abiotic stresses limiting crop yields, especially in the Southwestern United States. Non-optimal temperatures and water-deficit reduce crop growth and development and often cause reduced metabolic rates even after the stresses are removed. To make progress in minimizing the adverse impact of these stresses on crops, a better understanding in required of how they affect plant growth and development. Further information is needed, in particular, on the effects of these stresses on the plant cell cycle, plant-herbicide interactions, oxidative damage, root development, and plant-mycorrhizal interactions. Additional important insights into mechanisms for attenuating the adverse effects of abiotic stresses will be gained through molecular and physiological analysis of naturally evolved tolerances to water-deficit and thermal stresses in plants. IBC RECERTIFICATION May 14, 2001.