PhD. Topics

The role of extracellular proteins in the early stages of somatic embryogenesis in selected conifer species

genetics

2026

Mgr. Katarína Klubicová, PhD.

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Faculty of Natural Sciences Comenius University

Plants have the ability to produce somatic embryos from somatic cells, i.e., without the need for gamete fusion, and this process is known as somatic embryogenesis (SE). It represents an effective regeneration system for the in vitro propagation of coniferous trees. Additionally, it is suitable for studying fundamental questions of plant development. Although the process of somatic embryogenesis has been induced in many species of coniferous trees, the mechanisms underlying the transformation of somatic cells into embryogenic cells remain unclear. A better understanding of these mechanisms may lead to improvements in existing protocols and thus to a more effective use of the regeneration system. Extracellular proteins influence the composition of the cell wall and thus many physiological processes, including somatic embryogenesis. The aim of the thesis is to systematically study the role of extracellular proteins (e.g., cell wall proteins) in the early stages of somatic embryogenesis. In our study, we will utilize proteomic methods that enable us to systematically investigate protein dynamics, protein interactions, function, and post-translational modifications during the transformation of somatic cells into embryogenic cells, thereby providing an overview of ongoing biological processes. Based on the results, we will select interesting proteins and enzymes to further study using microscopic methods. The results obtained may lead to the design of markers for SE and a better understanding of the processes occurring during SE in selected conifer species, thereby streamlining existing protocols.