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2022 International Conference on Arabidopsis Research
Belfast, Northern Ireland
20th – 24th June 2022
Over the past few years, there has been a noticeable paradigm shift towards a more holistic understanding of plant defence mechanisms. The advent of advanced molecular techniques, computational tools, and interdisciplinary collaborations has broadened our grasp of plant diseases and their management strategies. The 2022 International Conference on Arabidopsis Research (ICAR2022) stood as a testament to this progress. The conference showed how Arabidopsis, as a model organism, continues to provide invaluable insights into the host-pathogen dynamics. As a member of the BSPP community, I perceived the conference to be offering a panoramic view of innovation and collaboration in plant pathology and the field’s current trajectory.
One of the standout themes at ICAR2022 was the integration of systems biology approaches in elucidating plant-pathogen interactions. Dr Shahid Mukhtar’s presentation perfectly encapsulated this theme with his exploration into the confluence of machine learning and plant pathology. In his talk, Dr Mukhtar introduced a deep learning method called deepNF, a pioneering machine learning approach rooted in artificial neural networks, and emphasised its potential in deciphering complex defence mechanisms. Through deepNF, Dr Mukhtar and his team predicted a subset of nitrogen-associated genes, and further provided experimental evidence, validating the role of these genes in plant-pathogen interplay. The integration of computational techniques, particularly deep learning, is a burgeoning domain of plant science, as showcased by Dr Mukhtar. The potential of predicting and validating gene functions using such advanced methods is exciting and hints at the direction of my future research endeavours. While the potential of such tools is immense, discussions around their accuracy and applicability added a layer of intrigue to the conference. Overall, Dr Mukhtar’s work underscored the promise of combining predictive modelling with plant pathology research, offering a fresh perspective through which to unravel the complexities of plant-pathogen interactions.
Another highlight was the presentation by Dr Mika Nomoto. Central to her talk was the role of NONEXPRESSER OF PR GENES 1 (NPR1) in mediating the intricate crosstalk between two antagonistic defence hormones: jasmonic acid (JA) and salicylic acid (SA). While the role of the NPR1 in activating SA-responsive genes is well-known, Dr Nomoto sheds light on a sophisticated system: in the presence of SA, NPR1 interacts with the JA-responsive MED25-MYC2 transcription activator complex and displaces the MED25 to form an NPR1-MYC2 repressor complex. This strategically inhibits the transcriptional activation of JA-responsive genes, fortifying plants against MYC-mediated susceptibility to pathogen virulence. Through her insights, Dr Nomoto deepened our understanding of the dual role of NPR1 in plant immunity.
At ICAR2022, I had the privilege of presenting my poster titled ‘Conservation of ERF1 function in defence across lettuce and Arabidopsis’. Sharing my work, engaging in discussions, and receiving feedback was an invigorating experience. Presenting my work to a community of peers brings a whole new perspective, helping me see the broader implications and significance of my research.
Beyond the formal presentations and sessions, ICAR2022 was a fantastic networking opportunity. I was fortunate to meet several colleagues who shared similar research interests. These interactions weren’t just casual chats; they paved the way for meaningful collaborations. One such connection was with postdoctoral scientist Jack Rhodes from The Sainsbury Laboratory (TSL). Our discussions revolved around my work in gene editing in lettuce, and Jack was instrumental in bridging connections that could further this research. With his assistance, I’ve been able to establish a collaboration with a lab that has the expertise and resources to elevate my work to the next level.
Outside the conference halls, Belfast, with its rich history and scenic beauty, offered attendees a cultural and visual feast. The city’s murals, scattered throughout the city, added layers of colour to our visit. These artistic expressions, which vividly depict the city’s rich history and resilience, provided a perfect backdrop for scientific discussions. Additionally, a visit to the Giant’s Causeway, with its iconic geological formations and breathtaking coastal views, was a memorable excursion for our team. While the beauty of Belfast and its surroundings was captivating, the heart of ICAR2022 was undeniably its groundbreaking research, making the entire event both intellectually and culturally enriching.
I would like to extend my gratitude to the BSPP for generously providing this travel fund that enabled my participation in ICAR2022. BSPP’s continued efforts to empower early-career researchers like myself ensures that financial constraints do not hinder the exchange of knowledge and ideas in the field.
In conclusion, ICAR2022 offered a glimpse into the ever-evolving future of plant pathology research endeavours. The event highlighted the collaborative spirit within the scientific community, reinforcing our shared commitment to tackling the pressing challenges of our era.
Fatih M. Kara
University of York
