Summer

As the sun finally shines brighter, our researchers are either presenting their groundbreaking work ​at conferences or enjoying a well-deserved break, perhaps somewhere green and leafy.

Summer is a time when flowers bloom in full glory, reminding us why we fell in love with plant ​science in the first place. Whether it’s appreciating the vibrant hues of summer blossoms or ​marveling at the intricate ecosystems thriving in the warmth, this season offers endless inspiration. ​For plants, summer means rapid growth and bustling activity. It’s the peak of photosynthesis, a ​crucial period for agriculture, and a dynamic time for ecological interactions. From the fields of ​sustainable agriculture to the diverse habitats of our natural ecosystems, summer is a season of ​abundance and vitality. So, grab a cool drink, find a shady spot, and dive into this issue. And ​remember, just like plants, we all need a little sunshine to thrive!

Coming soon to your earbuds:

The new Young LPI podcast!

Lucas: I am a first year PhD researcher at the lab for Plant Genetics and Crop ​Improvement (PGCI), where I do research on meiosis in Arabidopsis, as well as ​in pear. I am producing this podcast and hope we can reach a diverse audience ​while doing so. Through our conversations, I hope to shed light on crucial ​topics in crop science, making scientific concepts accessible and enjoyable for ​everyone.

Pauline: I kind of stumbled into this podcast, thanks to a big push from Lucas. ​But since I love plants and chatting, I think that’s enough to keep going, right?

I’m a first-year PhD scientist specializing in biological pest control technologies ​for strawberries. I work in the Laboratory of Gene Technology and the ​Laboratory for Process Microbial Ecology and Bioinspirational Management. ​This means that most of my days are spent in the laminar flow hood, in the ​plant growth chamber, or handling insects.

getting to know our professors

Prof. Nico de Storme

We had the pleasure of conducting an interview with Professor ​Nico De Storme. He studied bioscience engineering at Ghent ​University from 2001 to 2006, focusing on Agricultural Science ​Engineering during his master's. Initially, he aimed to work for ​breeding companies, unaware of the potential for an academic ​career on this topic. However, an opportunity to join Professor ​Geelen's lab as a PhD student shifted his path towards ​academic research. In 2013, he obtained his PhD in gene ​selection and engineering and in total Nico spent 12 years in ​this lab, focusing on reproductive biology and gene discovery ​in Arabidopsis.

“In 2018, after my post-doc, a position at KU Leuven aligned perfectly with my passion for plant breeding ​and molecular biology. I took over the Fruit Breeding and Biotechnology lab of Professor Keulemans, ​originally dedicated to apple genetics and breeding, and expanded its scope to combine applied and ​fundamental research, starting the Plant Genetics and Crop Improvement Lab.

Our lab now focuses on the genetic determination and molecular control of reproductive processes ​in plants mainly using model plants like Arabidopsis and tomato, but also studying perennial fruit crops, ​such as apple and pear. We employ genetic screening, mapping-by-sequencing, and CRISPR to identify ​and knock out candidate genes. Cytology, including chromosome spreading, FISH, and ​immunostaining, is crucial for understanding complex chromosome behaviour and genomic stability ​during meiosis and gametogenesis. To this end, we aim to fill the expertise gap in meiotic cytology left by ​retiring experts. Additionally, we use DNA flow cytometry for ploidy analysis in plants, crucial for ​projects on doubled haploid technology (DH) and genome stability in apple, pear and grape, amongst ​other crops. Our transformation procedures in these fruit crops aim to set the stage to implement new ​breeding technologies and optimize CRISPR techniques. Early flowering lines in apple and pear, ​developed in collaboration with other labs, are utilized to accelerate breeding and study reproductive ​processes. Lastly, we build expertise in HPLC for analyzing sugars, phenols, and vitamin C, and continue ​research on topics that are specific to pome fruit, such as juvenility, biennial bearing, and fruit quality”.

According to you, which are the main challenges we are facing as a society? How might your ​research affect these challenges?

The primary challenge is achieving sustainable food production amid climate change. Even in fertile ​regions like Flanders, fluctuating weather conditions impact agricultural productivity. Our lab wants to ​address this issue by developing improved cultivars adapted to changing climates and cultivation ​systems. How? We focus on accelerating the production of new varieties using both conventional ​selection-based breeding and biotechnological strategies like haploid induction, polyploidization and ​targeted genome editing (e.g. CRISPR).

Another challenge is the conservation and valorisation of natural plant biodiversity, as this forms the ​raw material for genetic crop improvement, particularly in current conditions of climate change . To ​conclude, I think that public perception of GMOs poses another challenge. We strive to change negative ​views by demonstrating the potential of genetic modifications in breeding. Engaging with the public and ​policymakers is crucial, and as a professor at KU Leuven, I see this as a significant future task. I really ​want to have research topics where we can show the benefits of these technologies and by having ​citizens on our side, hopefully, politicians will follow.

What do you think of the LPI?

The Leuven Plant Institute (LPI) is a commendable ​initiative, fostering a strong scientific ​community and highlighting KU Leuven's ​excellent plant research. It bridges different ​research groups, promoting interdisciplinary ​collaboration. LPI creates a sense of family and ​cohesion, essential for new incoming researchers ​like myself who initially did not have any connec-

tion within the university.

What do you think about the Young LPI community?

The Young LPI community does an excellent job. Their initiatives are rewarding, fostering ​connections among researchers from different labs, both at the scientific and social level. It's ​impressive to see the camaraderie and friendship within this community.

Is there any message you would like to broadcast?

To those entering science, particularly PhD students and early-career researchers: don't put too much ​pressure on yourselves. The hierarchical system where supervisors are seen as unapproachable bosses ​is outdated. Research groups should be supportive, guiding, and collaborative. Be confident, driven ​by enthusiasm, and remember that research is a unique and fulfilling career.

LPI Alumni

Kenny Helsen - WeForest

Background and academic journey

Kenny Helsen began his academic career with a PhD at KU Leuven in the research group of Prof. Olivier ​Honnay, focusing on plant ecology. His research specifically looked at the restoration of calcareous ​grasslands in the Viroin Valley in southern Belgium. This project involved studying how plant ​communities reassemble over time after the removal of forest plantations and reinstating grazing. ​Kenny examined both community assembly and population genetics, using neutral genetic markers to ​understand gene flow and diversity within plant populations.

After completing his PhD, Kenny took a half-year break to travel and clear his mind. He then returned to ​KU Leuven for a short postdoc building on his PhD work. Subsequently, he moved to Norway for a two-​year postdoc at NTNU in Trondheim, studying the impact of invasive plant species on local ecosystems. ​This research included a network of universities from Norway to northern France. Following this, he ​undertook another postdoc at KU Leuven, incorporating remote sensing technology to study plant ​functional traits using hyperspectral imaging. Kenny's academic journey also included a stint in Taiwan ​at NTU in Taipei, where he researched functional traits within the cloud forest zone.

What inspired you to transition from academia to working with WeForest?

I wanted to apply my scientific knowledge to real-world problems, particularly environmental ​conservation. Academia gave me a strong research background, but I wanted to see tangible outcomes ​from my work. WeForest offered an opportunity to make a direct impact through reforestation and ​ecosystem restoration.

Can you describe a typical project you work on at WeForest?

A typical project starts with site selection and baseline assessments to understand the ecosystem. We ​then develop a restoration plan, select species, plan the planting (or natural regeneration) process, and ​set up monitoring protocols. Collaboration with external partners and local communities (e.g. through ​FPIC agreements) is crucial to ensure sustainability and mutual benefits. Our projects have multiple ​pillars, including ecological restoration, forest governance, community sensibilisation and livelihood ​enhancement efforts.

It is important to balance ecological goals with the socio-economic needs of local communities. We need ​to ensure that our projects provide tangible benefits, such as improved livelihoods and ecosystem ​services. We always investigate the roots causes of forest degradation in the first place (e.g. the ​production of charcoal for community income). To mediate, we need to look for alternative, sustainable ​strategies that allow the local communities to make a living while simultaneously sustainably managing ​the forest.

How do you measure the success of a reforestation project?

Success is measured by seeing if the anticipated changes occur, by regularly measuring clear, relevant ​indicators and comparing them to anticipated targets. If they don't, we go and investigate the reason and ​once identified use adaptive management to adjust our strategies and ensure sustainable outcomes. My ​role herein involves facilitating the exchange of knowledge across projects and ensuring everything is up ​to standard​​.

How has your international mobility impacted your personal and professional development?

I like to travel, so mobility has always been part of the allure of doing academia or my current job. It ​opens up opportunities and gives you the thrill of discovering a new place. However, it requires open ​communication about the implications with your partner or family. It also teaches you valuable skills ​like flexibility, cultural awareness, and it helps in further developing your social skills​​.

What advice would you give to current PhD students and postdocs who are considering their ​career paths?

Remain open to opportunities outside of academia. While academic research is valuable, there are many ​ways to apply your skills and knowledge to make a real-world impact. Networking is crucial—build ​connections with professionals in various sectors, attend conferences, and participate in ​interdisciplinary projects. Developing a broad skill set is also important. Alongside your specialized ​research skills, do not ignore the ‘soft skills’, such as project management, facilitation, moderation ​communication, and teamwork abilities. These skills are highly transferable and will be beneficial in any ​career path you choose. As an academic researcher you do gain many of these skills automatically, so do ​not forget to emphasize them to your future employers, as they might not be aware you mastered them. ​Also be aware that each field has its own jargon and terminology for the same skills and competences, so ​try to find out what jargon will best resonate in the next job you apply for. For example, a large part of ​Monitoring and Evaluation comes down to data management and analysis, but the terminology that is ​used within and outside of academia might differ slightly. In short, be aware that academia has provided ​you a large set of both hard and soft skills that will be extremely valuable outside of academia, and make ​sure you find the key buzzwords to demonstrate your wonderful skillset.

Nerdland Festival

sGLOBE Lab

Jonas Simons, Stef Haesen, Christophe Metsu and Koenraad Van Meerbeek

“How can we create a 3D model using light?" This was ​the intriguing question our colleagues from sGlobe ​posed at Nerdland. The responses ranged from “I have ​no clue!” to “Something with the reflection of light?” A ​brave 10-year-old shouted, “With LiDAR!” He was right! ​LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) uses light to create ​3D models. At Nerdland, the sGlobe lab broke down how ​LiDAR works.

They started with a simple explanation using the Nikon Forestry Pro, a device used to measure tree ​height. It emits a laser beam to a tree, which then reflects back to the device. By measuring the travel ​time of the light, the device calculates the distance to the tree. Visitors tried it out on nearby trees. With ​this basic understanding the sGLOBE team decided it was time for the big reveal: a flashy drone that ​grabbed everyone’s attention! They explained how LiDAR sensors can be mounted on drones. By ​sending out hundreds of thousands of laser rays per second, the sensors create a dense point cloud, ​which can be converted into a 3D model. A 3D model of a forest was displayed on the monitor to ​demonstrate its application in their research.

For the grand finale, they brought out an ​iPad. The latest “pro” models have a built-in ​LiDAR sensor in their camera. Using an app, ​visitors could create a 3D model of ​themselves, which were saved and sent to ​them to share with friends and family.

“We loved sharing our passion for science and engaging with the visitors. It was fun for us, and we hope it was equally enjoyable for ​everyone who stopped by!”

Jonas Simons

MeBioS Biophotonics group

Bertram Van Soom, Emma Van Puyenbroeck, Gerardo Mora, Ine Lambrechts, Joke Melis and Wout Vierbergen

Our colleagues from the Biophotonics group could be found at the Nerdland Mini-Farm of the Future. ​Their stand had two setups: a hyperspectral camera system and the G(R)OWBOT.

Hyperspectral cameras can capture hundreds of wavebands, ​allowing us to see beyond the visible spectrum and to create a so-​called "spectral fingerprint". This fingerprint helps us to ​differentiate between objects, even those that appear very ​similar to the human eye. Within the context of a farming ​system, it can be used to detect unwanted field objects, to ​identify diseases, or to sort post-harvest products. Visitors had ​the chance to scan fruits, vegetables and herbs, and could ​observe the varied spectral fingerprints of these objects, The ​interactive nature of this setup garnered much enthusiasm!

The G(R)OWBOT was the crowd’s favorite. This robotic arm can move in X, Y, and Z directions, making it ​ideal for monitoring plants in greenhouses or vertical farms. The Biophotonics team equipped the ​G(R)OWBOT with two cameras. A thermal camera that enables the early detection and monitoring of ​drought stress in plants, and a depth camera that can estimate plant biomass to ensure optimal growth ​conditions. The demo received an overwhelmingly positive response, with visitors intrigued by the ​automated movements of the robot!

“It was inspiring to see the public's enthusiasm for cutting-edge agricultural technology and hopefully we also inspired some of the ​youngest to become the next generation of bio-science engineers!”

Emma Van Puyenbroeck

Plant Genetics and Crop Improvement Lab (PGCI)

German Vighi, Han Palmers, Lucas Philips, Mireia Uranga and Nico De Storme

The PGCI lab focuses on plant genetics and breeding, and they brought two games to Nerdland: the ​Ancestry Game and the New Genome Techniques Game.

In the Ancestry Game, visitors were given a box containing ​relatives to the wild mustard (e.g. broccoli, Brussels sprouts, ​cauliflower, etc.). This enclosed box had an opening to put your ​hand in, to feel and guess the type of veggies. They used this ​game to explain how several crops can originate from just one ​plant (e.g. wild mustard) through a process called domestication, ​leading to the modern crops that are cultivated nowadays.

As part of the same ancestry game, visitors were given a set of cards showing the wild relatives of a ​range of crops, for instance, teosinte and maize. People had to match the wild relatives with the modern ​crops. This game allowed our colleagues to explain the importance of selection to obtain cultivars ​holding traits that satisfy our necessities, such as bigger and tastier fruits, nutrient-packed vegetables, ​and resistance to pests and diseases. If the visitors were able to solve this game properly, they received ​an in vitro grown tomato seedling with a QR code providing practical instructions. People who will ​succeed in growing the tomato seedling can win a visit to the PGCI lab!

The New Genome Techniques Game aimed to ​explain how these modern techniques can help us to ​make crop breeding more precise and efficient, by ​targeting specific parts of the plant’s genome for ​modification. For this purpose, the PGCI Lab built a ​LEGO model and prepared a game in which visitors ​could assemble a CRISPR-Cas9 system (i.e. a type of ​genome editing system) to gain a better ​understanding of the technique itself and why ​certain genetically modified crops cannot be ​distinguished from their conventional counterparts.

“The reception of the public was great and they showed a lot of interest. They were amazed by how wild relatives of known crops ​looked like, and all the progress we made in plant domestication.”

German Vighi

Process Microbial Ecology and Bioinspirational Management Lab (PME&BIM)

Pauline Verhage, Alexander Peys, Alexa Deknijf and Hans Rediers

The PME&BIM lab seeks to control pests and pathogens through the application of so-called integrated ​pest management (IPM) strategies. The team prepared two games, an ElectroBoard and Genetic ​Fingerprinting puzzle.

Left of sunflower: Superheroes

(1) Scoliidae wasp, (2a) Chalcid wasp, (2b) Mirid bug, (3a) ​Braconid wasp, (3b) Ladybug, (4) Parastic wasp

Right of sunflower: Pests

(1) Japanese beetle, (2) White fly, (3) Aphid, (4) Southern ​green stink bug

The idea of the ElectroBoard was to connect a ​pest insect with a superhero parasitoid. When ​correctly connecting one of the insects from ​the left (i.e. superheroes) with one of the ​insects on the right (i.e. pests), the sunflower ​would light up. Both kids and adults showed ​great interest in the game. One thing that ​caught a lot of attention was the fact that the ​superheroes are not always bigger than the ​pests – something that goes against the logic of ​most visitors. The same holds for the names of ​the pests and parasitoids. Visitors often ​connected pest and parasitoid insects with ​similar names with each other, which not ​always stands true!

For the genetic fingerprinting game, the PME&BIM Lab showed a variety of microorganisms on agar ​plates. These microorganisms had a genetic barcode (i.e. fingerprint) which could identify them as either ​a pathogen, neutral or beneficial microorganism. The main goal of the game was to demonstrate the ​efficient way of identifying microorganisms using modern available techniques. One of the plates ​showed a Paenibacillus strain that has activity against Agrobacterium rhizogenes, a pathogen that causes ​crazy root disease in tomatoes. The visitors could clearly observe an inhibition of pathogen growth ​nearby the Paenibacillus.

“It was interesting to see that many people who came to the ElectroBoard would ask us: ”What do I do against my snails?” This ​was clearly one of the biggest plant problems at the moment due to a very rainy season!”

Pauline Verhage

Molecular Plant Hormone Physiology Lab (MPHP) and Elektrische Energiesystemen en -​toepassingen (ELECTA)

Zoë Scheerlinck, Thomas Reher, Niels Eerdekens, Bram Van de Poel, Cas Lavaert, Zeno Van Moerkerke and Jan Capelle

The MPHP lab uses molecular genetics, biochemical and physiological experiments to perform basic and ​applied research in the field of horticulture and agriculture. Poi and Loïck from the greenhouse ​prepared a vertical farming display, and the colleagues from ELECTA (KU Leuven Gent) brought a mini ​agrivoltaics system.

The vertical farming (VF) display showed the public ​the opportunities and applications of vertical farming, ​especially in urban or deserted areas. Pros and cons of ​this type of controlled farming systems were discussed ​as well as its current use in the cultivation of herbs and ​strawberry. The ELECTA group installed a miniature ​version of an agrivoltaics (AV) system featuring ​maize, solar flowers, and grasses underneath it. AV - ​the combination of agriculture and photovoltaics (PV) - ​is still a rather unknown concept for many people, as ​this innovative approach is in the development ​process. The MPHP lab is currently studying the ​implementation of PV in fruit crop production systems, ​by assessing crop performance under different PV lay-​outs. The aim is to collect data on pome and other ​fruits in different AV set-ups in Flanders!

Additionally, the MPHP and ELECTA team had virtual reality glasses showcasing three different AV ​setups. With these glasses, the visitors could view the AV setup from a distance to observe how the ​construction would influence the surrounding landscape.

“It was so cute to see the kids get lost in the virtual world. The parents enjoyed watching their kids having so much fun ​and were also very interested in the purpose and advantages of AV systems”.

Zoë Scheerlinck

LPI also installed a kid’s corner where Evelien ​Franck, Niels Eerdekens and Kato Macharis helped ​out the young visitors filling up their pots with pot ​soil and sowing either some radish or basil that ​they could take home.

Our greatest appreciation to all the colleagues who contributed to making the third ​edition of the Nerdland festival such a great success!

A big thank you to Ward and Filip who took up the role as host at the booth.

A special thanks to Maarten, Jenny, Poi and Loïck for taking care of the ​preparations and enabling everything to run so smooth during the festival!

Thanks to all of you, visitors learned more about vertical farming, (g)ro(w)botics, ​hyperspectral imaging, drone and LiDAR technology, integrated pest management, ​plant breeding, gene editing technology, and agrivoltaics! We can be sure that all ​these science enthusiasts will remember LPI fondly when looking at their plants ​and sprouting seeds!

Photo credits: Kaat Hebbelinck and Maarten Houben

11

plantinstitute@kuleuven.be

www.kuleuven.be/plant-institute

Bridging Science and Policy: MEP Engages ​with LPI on biotech Innovations

Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) Kathleen Van Brempt and Bruno Tobback, ​from the Socialist and Democrats coalition (S&D) visited the LPI and the PGCI lab. The ​visit was part of an initiative to engage with different sectors of the policy-making world ​and bridge the gap between scientist and policymakers.

From left to rigth: Siebe Jonckheere, ​(personal assistant Kathleen), Tessa ​Geudens (policy advisor Kathleen), ​Kathleen Van Brempt, Jan ​Deschoolmeester (WePlanet), Bruno ​Tobback, Nico De Storme (PGCI lab-​LPI), Maarten Houben (manager ​LPI), German Vighi (PGCI lab-LPI), ​Filip Rolland (director LPI)

More in details, the visit provided a valuable opportunity to engage in a thorough debate about the ​New Genome Techniques (NGTs) regulation proposal by the European Commission, specifically ​targeting mutagenesis and cisgenesis. Our discussions underscored the fundamental role of ​agricultural biotechnology in enhancing climate resilience, increasing crop yields, and promoting ​more sustainable agriculture practices. In addition, we had the opportunity to discuss some ​sensitives aspect of the new proposal, like patenting, labelling and traceability.

We sincerely deeply thank MEP Kathleen Van Brempt and Bruno Tobback for accepting our ​invitation and for the opportunity to engage in such rich discussion. Looking forward for ​more - stay tunned!

YoungLPI Interviews/events

Do you have ​something ​Interesting to ​share?

KU Leuven Climate Gardeners ​around Europe

April 2024 - Climate Gardeners at the European Geosciences Union (EGU) ​conference in Vienna

The Annual International Conference of the European ​Geosciences Union (EGU) took place in Vienna, Austria, from the ​14th to the 19th of April. This event brought together leading ​scientists and researchers from around the world to share the ​latest findings and developments in geosciences. The KU Leuven ​Climate Gardeners team were well represented by our colleagues ​Kelly Wittemans and Janne Teerlinck, who made valuable ​contributions to several sessions during the conference.

Garden management from a socio-ecological perspective

One of Climate Gardeners' contributions focused on the ​influence of motivation, knowledge and context on ​garden management. The session titled “Garden ​Management: A socio-economic perspective” ​revolved around the contribution of integrating ​social and environmental sciences. The presentation ​highlighted how different factors influence the ​behavior and decisions of garden owners in Flanders ​and underscored the importance of an integrated ​approach that takes into account the complex ​interactions between social and environmental aspects ​to promote sustainable garden management.

The benefits of trees from the one health perspective

Another important contribution of Climate ​Gardeners was the presentation on "The ​benefits of urban trees from a One Health ​perspective" in a session focused on the ​challenges and advances in the dynamics of ​urban ecosystems. This presentation explored ​the multifaceted benefits that trees provide, not ​only for the environment but also for human ​and animal health. Advanced technologies such ​as Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) and i-​Tree ECO software were used to analyze the ​contribution of trees to ecosystem services. The ​importance of garden trees compared to street ​trees and public trees, depending on the urban ​context, was highlighted.

May - July 2024 - Climate Gardeners Collaboration with Manchester Metropolitan ​University (MMU)

From the 23rd of May to 11th of July 2024, part of the KU Leuven Climate Gardeners team went on a ​research visit to Manchester, UK, to collaborate with Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU) ​and Prof. Dr. Gina Cavan. Funded by FWO, this collaboration is highly valuable, as MMU has conducted ​extensive research on the role of gardens in climate adaptation. By joining forces, the Climate Gardeners ​aim to strengthen their research and gain new insights.

The collaboration with MMU focuses on two ​main themes. Firstly, the aim is to understand ​how the use of a garden influences its ​composition and layout. Activities such as ​relaxing with friends and family, barbecuing, ​or simply enjoying the outdoors undoubtedly ​impact a garden's composition and layout. ​Together with MMU, Climate Gardeners are ​investigating how these usage patterns ​determine the specific decisions made by ​gardeners concerning their garden ​composition.

Secondly, together with MMU, the Climate Gardeners team aims to classify gardens into different ​garden types. This typology could help in characterizing the wide variation in domestic gardens across ​countries and cities, particularly in the context of climate change adaptation. By creating these garden ​types, we can better determine the specific needs of each garden to maximize its climate ​adaptation potential and identify key areas for improvement. With these insights, the Climate ​Gardeners team wants to inform policymakers to make evidence-based and spatially-explicit decisions ​related to gardens.

summary LPI seminars

april 24

Han Palmers: Development of a machine learning pipeline to analyze pollen ​quality in apple (Malus x domestica Borkh.)

Pollen quality plays a crucial role in the reproductive ​success of apple, influencing fruit set, and ultimately ​orchard productivity since apple is an obligatory cross-​pollinator. For successful reproduction, viable pollen ​grains are essential, germinating on the stigma of the ​pollen recipient. However, in apple, little is known ​about the genetic variation pollen quality, as well as ​the quantity of pollen grains that are produced. ​Moreover, current methods to determine pollen quality ​such as (in vitro) germination assays and viability stains ​have proved to be cumbersome with low ​reproducibility. Therefore, in Hans's study, he ​developed a machine learning tool able to assess ​apple pollen viability based on high-throughput ​bright-field microscopy of pollen grains with 90% ​accuracy. Consequently, he applied this tool to estimate ​pollen viability in a range of apple genotypes in order to ​identify the causative genetic elements for variation in ​both pollen viability and pollen quantity.

Nicolas Rojas Preciado: Landscape and weather drivers in the forecast of seasonal ​arrival and population abundance of Myzus persicae in sugar beet.

Recent bans on chemical pesticides and limited sustainable ​alternatives have made pest and disease control highly ​challenging. Since the European neonicotinoid ban in 2019, ​sugar beet crops have increasingly suffered from yellowing ​viruses, leading to significant yield losses. These viruses are ​exclusively transmitted by aphids, with the green peach ​aphid Myzus persicae serving as the main vector. Knowledge ​on the population dynamics of M. persicae and risk factors is ​crucial to increase the predictability of aphid infestation and ​enhance the management of yellowing viruses. In Nicolas's ​study, he identified key landscape and weather drivers of ​M. persicae infestation and constructed predictive ​models to forecast the week of arrival and the extend of ​infestation in sugar beet.

summary LPI seminars

For this, we first related the cumulative and maximum abundance, and first week of observation of ​alate and apterous M. persicae to a large number of environmental variables, including landscape ​composition and configuration metrics, and weather metrics calculated over different critical time ​windows. Next, generalized linear models were used to analyze the response of M. persicae to ​combinations of selected variables in three categories: (i) landscape drivers, (ii) weather drivers, and ​(iii) combined drivers. Higher winter temperatures, wind direction and early sowing favored an ​early arrival of alate and apterous M. persicae independently of the surrounding landscape. The ​abundance of apterous and alate M. persicae was favored by higher winter temperatures, with ​morphotypes showing varying responses to different landscape elements. Arable land, orchards and ​semi-natural woody landscape were related to the population abundance of alate M. persicae, while ​the population abundance of apterous M. persicae was mainly related to arable land, urban ​landscape and semi-natural herbaceous landscape. We also found that the population of M. persicae ​was not influenced by precipitation or relative humidity. Forecasts that were made using a ​combination of metrics, supplemented with sowing week and field area, performed better than ​models that relied solely on weather or landscape predictors. All in all, this study provides evidence ​that the population dynamics of the green peach aphid in sugar beet is driven by a combination of ​weather and landscape parameters and can serve as a basis for developing preventive measures in ​the management of this and other pest populations in open-field crops.

april 29

Prof. Rashmi Sasidharan: Anticipate, acclimate, reanimate: plant survival in a ​wetter world.

Flooding is a major abiotic stress for plants, with negative impacts ​on biodiversity and crop output. Inundation significantly limits ​plant gas exchange and most terrestrial plants cannot sustain ​normal functioning under wet conditions. Flooding causes ​perturbations in in planta levels of oxygen, ethylene, reactive ​oxygen species and carbohydrates. However, some of these ​changes also serve as important stress signals. These signals can ​vary both spatially across a plant and temporally during a flood ​event. The response of plant tissues to these stress signals can be ​both space- and time-dependent, enabling plants to anticipate and ​adapt to the stress and recover after the floodwater recedes.

In the seminar Professor Sasidharan discussed: 1) The dynamic nature of flooding stress signals and ​how they can provide a signature readout of prevailing flood conditions; 2) How plants use these ​signals to elicit various acclimatory responses; 3) Signaling pathways that underly these spatio-​temporal responses in the context of senescence, dehydration, and meristem survival; 4) How a ​fundamental understanding of these molecular responses might be useful for improving plant ​resilience to wet conditions.

summary LPI seminars

May 8

Jakub Salagovic: Predictive modelling of the ripening of tomatoes

Tomato, like other climacteric fruits, undergoes ​major changes during ripening in its ​appearance, texture, flavour and aroma, ​accompanied by a burst in respiration and ​ethylene emission. The ripening process normally ​starts on nearly full-sized fruit. However, the ​prediction of the exact moment when the fruit ​growth phase converts into the ripening phase is ​still a challenging task. Several independent ​mathematical models exist predicting fruit growth ​and quality development such as colour or ​firmness. In this study, Jakub presented an ​integrated approach to predict the initialization ​of fruit ripening based on fruit growth models. ​Using derivation of the fresh weight change we ​implemented a universal switch function triggering ​fruit quality changes.

Batist Geldhof: Electronic skins in plants

Innovations in agriculture increasingly rely on the ​integration of sensor technologies to monitor and ​optimize plant growth conditions. Humidity is one ​of these important variables and can be directly ​related to plant transpiration. Batist's project ​proposes the integration of humidity sensors ​directly with plant leaves through ​microfabrication techniques. By creating flexible ​and breathable plant skin-like devices, this approach ​offers a non-invasive, high-resolution solution for ​monitoring humidity levels directly at the plant's ​surface, thereby facilitating real-time transpiration ​monitoring.

summary LPI seminars

May 22

Ima Mulyama Zainuddin: New Insights into Extending the Shelf Life of Cassava ​Tuberous Roots

The short shelf life of cassava tuberous roots, so-called ​post-harvest physiological deterioration (PPD), restricts the ​use of cassava, which is the most important staple root ​crop worldwide. PPD lowers starch quality, making the ​roots unpalatable and unmarketable. It is a complex ​process that includes enzymatic stress responses to ​wounding, changes in gene expression and protein ​synthesis, and the accumulation of secondary metabolites. ​The earliest focus in delaying this process was primarily ​on modifying the root cellular responses to oxidative stress ​by increasing the activities of ROS-scavenging enzymes ​and using antioxidants. Nonetheless, her previous ​comparative transcriptomics and enzyme analysis ​revealed that the absence of PPD symptoms in delayed ​PPD cultivars does not substantially appear to be a ​consequence of enhanced ROS-scavenging enzymes.

Aisha-Alexandra Gerhardt: The ticking of the circadian clock in crop migration

One of the consequences of anthropogenic climate change ​will be the northwards migration of our most productive ​agricultural zones, to evade rising temperatures. It is ​critical to understand what the impact of such latitudinal ​migration will be on plant physiology in order to ​predictably breed and engineer climate-resilient crops. ​Past research by Aisha's lab and previous work in the field ​has found that the plant circadian clock genes are key to ​how plants adapt to the two major environmental ​factors that change with latitude: photoperiod (i.e. ​seasonality) and twilight length. Within Aisha's PhD ​project, she is using multiplexed gene-editing to create ​new alleles of plant clock genes (like LHY and CCA1) that ​may result in altered latitudinal sensitivity, and analyzing ​how these new alleles could lead to new climate adapted ​phenotypes.

summary LPI seminars

May 23

Prof. Onno Muller: Non-invasive field phenotyping to quantify plant traits in ​response to changing environments

Onno Muller is a plant ecophysiologist interested in ​how and why plants respond to their environment, ​specifically leaves of plants in their natural habitat. ​Experienced in field phenotyping, quantifying ​photosynthesis and its relationship to leaf nitrogen, ​rubisco, fluorescence, leaf and vein anatomy among ​others, in lab and field conditions. Internationally ​orientated and fascinated by non-invasive methods. He ​implemented and is coordinating field phenotyping under ​elevated CO2 in the BreedFACE, as well under ​photovoltaics in the APV 2.0. project. He uses the light ​induced fluorescence method, among others, for ​photosynthetic phenotyping. He is PI on field phenotyping ​projects in the German agricultural landscape as well as ​abroad.

Forschungszentrum ​Jülich

may 24

Prof. Raj Khosla: Big Data in Agriculture: Agronomic Considerations

Precision Agriculture has been around for over three decades. ​The first decade had a strong focus on technology and GNSS, ​the second decade focused on quantifying spatial variability in ​soils, and the third decade spent significant time on science ​and technology of precision management of nutrients and ​beyond. Now, with increasing adoption of Precision ​management techniques and practices there is interest in ​harnessing the power of data to grapple the new paradigm of ​making management decision based on evidence. The success ​of future farming practices, output, efficiency, and ​sustainability would rely heavily on “farming the data” as ​much as “farming the land”.

The presentation empowered the audience with research-based information on how precision ​agriculture is embracing information and communication technologies, as well as various aspects of ​big data, to transform agronomy and crop production systems. The presentation included examples ​where big data had been pivotal in addressing agronomic challenges and highlighted the greater role ​that big data can play in enhancing our understanding of variability in crops and soil properties. It ​also emphasized the importance of analyzing spatially dependent datasets to make highly accurate ​and timely agronomic decisions.

summary LPI seminars

June 5

Dr. Ting-Ying Wu: Exploring the Evolutionary Dynamics of Plant Biological Networks in ​Ever- Changing Environments”

Academia Sinica

Biological functions shape the topology of gene regulatory and ​signaling networks. Gene duplication and mutations introduce ​evolutionary diversity, enabling plants to adapt to extreme ​climates and environmental changes. A rich genome dataset helps ​infer the complexity and divergence of these networks across ​species. My lab studies the evolutionary conservation and ​divergence of biological systems, using quantitative OMICs ​methodologies with Marchantia polymorpha and Arabidopsis ​thaliana. We aim to understand how networks adapt and evolve ​amidst genetic and environmental changes, with a focus on heat ​stress (HS), a major constraint on plant growth and productivity. ​By understanding HS signaling and response networks, we hope ​to develop strategies to mitigate heat stress effects on plants. In ​my talk, I will discuss ongoing projects using multi-OMIC ​techniques and integrated analysis to explore HS responses in ​land plants, and the role of predictive modeling in identifying ​critical genes or features in these responses.

Dr. Ming-Jung Liu: Unveiling the Hidden: Exploring Translating Genes in Plants and ​Plant Viruses

Academia Sinica

The translation of mRNA into protein hinges on identifying ​translation initiation sites (TISs) by ribosomes, crucial for ​accurate protein production. Our lab studies translational control, ​focusing on novel TISs and hidden genes in plant defense and ​virus pathogenesis.

In this seminar, Dr. Liu discussed her findings of new TISs in ​plants and viruses. Using molecular techniques and ​computational biology, we discovered over 30% of plant genes ​have novel TISs at AUG and non-AUG codons, encoding small ​peptides or regulating protein diversity. She also identified new ​viral factors in begomoviruses essential for disease ​development.

She used machine learning and experimental techniques to understand ribosome recognition of ​novel TISs, characterizing conserved cis-regulatory sequences. Her results provide a model for ​discovering neglected protein-coding genes, emphasizing the role of cis-regulatory signatures in ​translational reprogramming.

summary LPI seminars

June 17

Dr. Yu Ni: MYB46: Multifunctional Regulator of Cell Wall, Cuticle, and Glucosinolate ​Biosynthesis in Brassicaceae, Impacting Environmental Stress Response

Qingdao Agricultural ​University

Brassica napus L., a crucial oilseed crop, is affected by global ​warming and increased drought frequency. B. napus is vulnerable to ​water deficit at all growth stages. Dr. Ni's lab focuses on ​identifying genes involved in surface lipid metabolism and ​stress tolerance. Collaborating with researchers on rapeseed and ​sorghum, she studied lipid metabolism under stress and the role of ​cuticular wax in drought resistance. Using multi-omics approaches, ​we identify genes linked to drought and salt tolerance, aiming to ​enhance B. napus resilience. In her presentation, Dr. Ni discussed ​her projects on MYB46's role in stress adaptation and resilience ​in Arabidopsis and B. napus, focusing on cell wall, cutin, wax, ​and glucosinolate in stress responses. She also covered KCS19's ​regulatory role in very-long-chain fatty acid biosynthesis and ​drought/salt response.

july 9

Prof. Wolfgang Dröge-Laser: Transcription Factor Dynamics: Control of Starvation ​Induced Transcription in Plants

Maintaining resource and energy homeostasis is crucial for all living ​organisms. In plants, the conserved Snf1-RELATED-KINASE1 (SnRK1) ​orchestrates transcriptional reprogramming during metabolic ​imbalance. The C/S1 bZIP transcription factor network mediates ​significant SnRK1 responses, but specific members' roles are unclear. ​Through mutant studies combining phenotypic and transcriptomic ​approaches, we characterized S1 bZIP functions. While bZIP2, bZIP11, ​and bZIP44 do not function in starvation response, bZIP1 and bZIP53 ​control a co-expression network regulating amino acid catabolism, ​transport, gluconeogenesis, C/N, and energy homeostasis, crucial for ​survival during starvation and recovery from stress.

University of

Würzburg

Focusing on DIN6 (DARK-INDUCED6) marker gene, we found its transcription involves a two-phase ​activation mechanism. Initially, metabolic changes induce nuclear SnRK1 activity, phosphorylating ​bZIP63, which initiates DIN6 transcription. The second phase, driven by starch/resource limitation, ​involves increased nuclear translocation of SnRK1's α-subunit and increased bZIP1 expression, ​enhancing DIN6 transcription. Dr. Dröge-Laser's project links metabolic stimuli to SnRK1 ​activation, nuclear translocation, and dynamic changes in transcriptional output during ​starvation-induced transcription.

summary LPI seminars

July 17

Prof. Achmad Subagio: Cassava as an industrial crop: Status, opportunities, and prospects ​in Indonesia”

Universitas Jember

The escalating demand for carbohydrates poses a significant ​challenge to global food security, especially in regions like Sub- ​Saharan Africa, South Asia, and Southeast Asia, including ​Indonesia. Cassava stands as a pivotal staple in many developing ​countries, offering vital nutrients and serving as a significant ​energy source. Cassava also uses as an industrial crop, which ​produces starch to be processed into feed ingredients, auxiliary ​material for the paper and textile industries, and various other ​bio-industrial materials.

This plant stands out as a potential bioresource in sustainable agriculture. Its resilience to poor soils ​and low water requirements makes it an ideal candidate for areas susceptible to climate change. ​However, there has been a significant decline in the condition of cassava in Indonesia, both in terms ​of production volume, economic value, and farmers’ interest in cultivating this plant. Various ​challenges are faced to restore the glory of cassava in Indonesia as an industrial crop. Prof. Subagio ​explained the status, opportunities, challenges, and prospects of cassava as an industrial crop ​in Indonesia, with detailed a discussion on aspects of plant development.

More seminars ​coming soon!

Future events

Pizza seminars will restart in September.

Over half the speaking slots for next academic year have filled up.

If you are looking to present your research during the seminar ​series, you can reserve a speaking slot here!

Professor Haiyan Cen, Biosystems Engineering and Food Science at Zhejiang University (China) ​- “High-throughput plant phenotyping with spectral imaging for sustainable agriculture”

plants of the world

Each newsletter we will select a plant species from any place in the world to talk a bit ​about their growth forms, ecological interactions, (potential) use, or other curious ​facts. In this issue, Maarten creates some buzz with one of his favorite plants: ​Acmella oleracea.

One of my all-time favorite plants is Acmella oleracea, also known as "toothache plant," ​"buzz buttons," "Szechuan buttons," "paracress," "jambu," or the electrifying "electric daisy." ​This fascinating flowering herb hails from the tropical regions of South America, ​particularly Brazil and Peru. However, my first encounter with this extraordinary plant was ​at Flanders’ spiciest festival, Chilifest. Amid the fiery celebration of chili peppers, one ​grower introduced this flower as a must-try sensation. They claimed it wasn’t just spicy but ​something entirely unique. Intrigued by the scientific mystery, I decided to give it a go… and ​it was an electric experience!

When you consume Acmella oleracea, it starts with a hint of ​citrus, followed by a distinctive tingling and numbing sensation ​in your mouth. This is all thanks to spilanthol, a bioactive ​compound that interacts with the trigeminal nerve, creating an ​electric buzzing or sparkling feeling, and triggering a flood of ​saliva. As an alkamide, spilanthol is responsible for the plant's ​amazing analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and saliva-inducing ​properties. The plant also contains diverse flavonoids, ​triterpenoids, and sterols, which all add to its potential ​therapeutic effects. No wonder it's nicknamed the "toothache ​plant" – it's been a traditional remedy for toothaches and oral ​discomforts for ages.

©Kenraiz / Wikimedia Commons

But don’t just save it for medicinal uses – there’s a whole lot of fun to be had with Acmella ​oleracea in the kitchen. I love surprising unsuspecting friends and colleagues with a taste of ​the flower buds. The way it changes their taste perception is always a delight! The leaves, ​which have similar but milder effect, are fantastic in salads for a refreshing twist. And ​cocktails? They become a whole new sensory adventure with the addition of these buzz ​buttons, adding an exciting layer to the flavor profile.

Scientists are catching on to the wonders of Acmella oleracea too. Since 2015, there has been ​a steady increase in research publications exploring this plant's quirky properties. New ​applications for its extracts are being developed, and I’m sure we’ve only scratched the ​surface of what these “buzz buttons” can do.

But for me, the most thrilling part will always be its electric nature. Whether you’re looking ​to spice up your taste buds or experiment with new culinary creations, Acmella oleracea is a ​plant that promises excitement and endless possibilities. So go ahead, take a bite, and let the ​electric daisy light up your senses!

Photo by Alexandre Debiève on Unsplash

Publication in the spotlight

In this edition of our LPI Magazine, we are proud to feature the research of Johanna Van ​Passel from the Remote Sensing & Terrestrial Ecology group, led by Ben Somers. Their ​latest study reveals a concerning trend: more than a third of the Amazon rainforest is ​struggling to recover from recurrent droughts, indicating a "critical slowing down" of this ​vital ecosystem. This research, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of ​Sciences, highlights the increased vulnerability of the Amazon, particularly in the south-east, ​to potentially irreversible degradation.

PUBLICATIONS

Natural Ecosystems and Biodiversity

April - July 2024

Bergen B, Moens C, Smolders E.. Cadmium concentrations in pore waters can largely increase ​during soil incubation: Artefacts with consequences for Cd limits in fertilisers. Sci Total ​Environ. 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.173555

Glonti T, Goossens M, Cochez C, Green S, Gorivale S, Wagemans J, Lavigne R, Pirnay JP.. Use of ​the Naturally Occurring Bacteriophage Grouping Model for the Design of Potent Therapeutic ​Cocktails. Antibiotics (Basel). 10.3390/antibiotics13050385

Grünig M, Rammer W, Albrich K, André F, Augustynczik ALD, Bohn F, Bouwman M, Bugmann ​H, Collalti A, Cristal I, Dalmonech D, De Caceres M, De Coligny F, Dobor L, Dollinger C, ​Forrester DI, Garcia-Gonzalo J, González JR, Hiltner U, Hlásny T, Honkaniemi J, Huber N, ​Jonard M, Maria Jönsson A, Lagergren F, Nieberg M, Mina M, Mohren F, Moos C, Morin X, ​Muys B, Peltoniemi M, Reyer CP, Storms I, Thom D, Toïgo M, Seidl R.. A harmonized database ​of European forest simulations under climate change. Data Brief. 10.1016/j.dib.2024.110384

PUBLICATIONS

Sustainable Agriculture

April - July 2024

PUBLICATIONS

Urban Green Space and Health

April - July 2024

In the picture

Location: Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park, ​Goiás, Brazil

The picture was shared by Paulo Bernardino and it ​depicts an ecosystem of the Cerrado, the Brazilian ​savanna.

On top, the true-color (RGB) image, and below, the ​near-infrared (NIR) image. In the NIR image, red ​indicates high, green intermediate, and blue low ​reflectance. To the left of the road, vegetation ​caught fire, while the right side didn’t burn. Since ​denser and healthier vegetation reflects more NIR ​radiation than bare soil or burned vegetation, the ​NIR image highlights well the differences between ​the system that burned and the one that didn’t. ​This research is being developed within a FWO-​FAPESP bilateral collaboration, and features the ​identification of critical thresholds in ecosystems ​water content that can lead to an increased fire ​risk or abrupt productivity losses. If you want to ​know more, please check out their website and ​stay tuned for more publications!