Research

Discovering Genes, Designing Resilient Crops

Research Topics

Our lab is committed to advancing sustainable agriculture through cutting-edge research in plant molecular biology, functional genomics, and genome engineering. Our primary mission is to identify and functionally characterize genes that govern critical agronomic traits, and to translate this knowledge into real-world crop improvement strategies. We are particularly focused on addressing the dual challenges of climate change and environmental sustainability by developing crops with enhanced abiotic stress tolerance and improved nutrient use efficiency.

We integrate diverse approaches, including transcriptome profiling (RNA-seq), long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) functional studies, CRISPR-based gene editing, and sensor-based plant diagnostics to generate knowledge and technologies that can contribute to a more resilient and productive agricultural system.

Climate Resillent Crop Development

Climate change has intensified the frequency and severity of drought, posing a serious threat to global food security. At CBL, we aim to develop drought-tolerant crop varieties—particularly rice and soybean—that can maintain yield under water-limited conditions. Our research focuses on understanding the molecular and physiological responses of plants to drought stress, including the roles of transcription factors, signaling cascades, and stress-responsive long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs).

Using high-throughput gene expression analysis, candidate gene screening, and genome editing technologies, we identify key regulators of drought tolerance and validate their functions through molecular and physiological assays. We also explore natural genetic variation and promoter engineering strategies to fine-tune gene expression under stress conditions. Our long-term goal is to deliver elite cultivars that are both high-yielding and climate-resilient.

High Nitrogen Use Efficiency (NUE) Crop Development

Excessive use of nitrogen fertilizers contributes to environmental degradation, including greenhouse gas emissions and water pollution, while also increasing production costs. Enhancing nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) in crops is therefore critical for sustainable agriculture.

We investigate key transcription factors (such as HAP2 and NLP families), nitrogen transporter genes (e.g., NRTs, AMTs), and their upstream regulatory networks that modulate nitrogen uptake, transport, and assimilation. Our work combines functional genomics, ChIP-qPCR, transactivation assays, and mutant analysis to dissect the genetic basis of NUE.

We also explore how NUE traits interact with other growth-regulating pathways, such as those controlling root development and nodule formation in legumes. Using CRISPR-Cas systems and promoter engineering, we aim to create high-NUE rice and soybean cultivars capable of producing stable yields with reduced nitrogen inputs. These innovations contribute not only to agricultural productivity but also to global efforts in carbon neutrality and environmental conservation.

Join Us in Shaping the Future

The Crop Biotechnology Lab (CBL) at Dankook University welcomes motivated individuals who are passionate about plant science, genetic engineering, and sustainable agriculture. We offer a dynamic and collaborative research environment where students and researchers can explore the frontiers of plant functional genomics, gene editing, and trait development.

We welcome collaboration and knowledge sharing. If you're interested in our research, want to explore partnership opportunities, or have insights to contribute, don’t hesitate to reach out.

📩 Contact us at: jsseo@dankook.ac.kr

Page updated

Google Sites

Report abuse