THE SHAHID LAB
How do plants communicate with other organisms?
We investigate how mobile small RNAs and epigenetic memory shape plant responses during interspecies interactions. By uncovering the molecular messages underlying these interactions, we aim to reveal new principles of plant defence, develop RNA-based approaches to protect crops from parasitic plants, and enhance beneficial interactions with symbionts.
Research program
Interspecies RNA communication
We study the mechanisms underlying biogenesis, transfer and role of mobile small RNAs in interspecies communication, with the aim of developing synthetic RNA interference-based solutions for crop protection.
Epigenetic memory
We investigate how plant interactions with parasites and symbionts reshape epigenomic regulatory landscapes – asking how new chromatin states form, whether they persist after the interaction has ended, and whether they alter future responses.
Genome plasticity and evolution
The intimate association of parasitic plants with their hosts creates opportunities for horizontal gene transfer between host and parasite genomes. We study how such horizontally transferred DNA is recognised, epigenetically regulated, and sometimes repurposed into new regulatory functions.
Latest news
Adaptation to Plant Defence in an Agricultural Insect Pest
— A second paper from collaborative work on soybean aph...
Congratulations to Jen, Deiniol and Megan on graduation!
— Many Congratulations to all the MS graduates - Megan ...
miRScore: a new tool for rigorous microRNA validation
— Led by the amazing Allison Vanek from the Mike Axtell...
Experimental warming alters free-living Nitrogen Fixation
— Our collaborative work on effect of experimental warm...