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Research Focus 3: Evolutionary Adaptations of the Plant Cytoskeleton

The evolution of plant-specific MAPs has been crucial for adapting to terrestrial environments. We are studying how IQD proteins evolved across different plant species, from streptophytic algae to angiosperms. By examining interspecies variability in proteoforms, we aim to understand how structural and functional changes in these proteins contributed to plant adaptation. We are also applying this knowledge to study intraspecies proteoform variability, particularly within Arabidopsis ecotypes. This approach will help us explore how differences in proteoforms contribute to variation in growth and stress adaptation, shedding light on how natural variations within populations impact plant resilience.