Principal Investigator
Joshua Yuan Ph, D., Professor
Department of Plant Pathology and Microbiology
Director, Systems and Synthetic Biology Innovation Hub (SSBIH)
Email: syuan@tamu.edu
Office Phone: 979-845-3016
Lab Number: 151
SSBIH website link (Click Here)

Research Focus

We aim to use integrated and multidisciplinary approaches to address important issues in bioenergy and plant biology. We are employing the latest systems and computational biology platforms to carry out four aspects of research. First, we are using the shot-gun proteomics, molecular network, and other high throughput methods to identify key genes controlling plant energy balance and defense. Several new groups of genes have been identified and are being studied. The research is a continuation from our traditional plant biology research. Second, we integrate the latest metagenomics and metaproteomics approaches to explore the molecular and systems level mechanisms for biomass degradation in Natural Biomass Utilization Systems (NBUS) like cattle rumen, termite gut, white rot fungi, and other insect guts. The study has led to insights about the biomass deconstruction and potential knowhow for reverse design of new biorefinery functions. The topic was spinned off from our plant insect interaction work and got expanded to a much broader perspective. Third, we are employing the state-of-the-art HDX mass spectrometry platform to explore enzyme dynamics toward understanding the dynamics-function relationship and developing new solutions for rational design of biocatalysts. The research serves as a perfect complement to the enzyme discovery for an integrated solution for biomass conversion. Fourth, we are carrying out metabolic engineering in both algal and higher plant species for improving terpenoid yield toward fuels, chemicals, and therapeutics applications. The complementary algal cultivation technologies and such were developed. The research direction was derived from our study of terpenoid function in plant defense. Overall, the four directions work together to address the key challenges in second and third generation biofuels as well as crop growth and safety.