Dr Darren Wong, Australian National University

Flowering plants have evolved extraordinarily diverse metabolites that underpin their survival and communication in a complex and dynamic ecological environment. While primary metabolites are shared by most flowering plants, specialized (secondary) metabolites have evolved in restricted lineages in response to the specific selection pressures encountered within different niches. In this talk, I will first present new insights into the molecular basis of the repeated evolution of highly specialized pollination strategies in iconic Australian orchids with many threatened species. I will specifically explore the chemical and genetic basis of specialized metabolism pathways (e.g. anthocyanins and terpenes) underpinning the evolution of floral colours and scent. The second part will focus on new insights into how transcription factors regulate specialized metabolite pathways, such as stilbene biosynthesis, during tissue-specific grapevine developmental programs in response to abiotic and biotic stresses. This research will contribute to key national priorities by delivering genomic insights for biodiversity conservation and environmental resilience, and by discovering novel pathway genes for biotechnology applications in food, floriculture, and agriculture.

Researcher Profile: https://researchportalplus.anu.edu.au/en/persons/darren-wong