9723573 McIntosh Plant mitochondria have two terminal oxidases, cytochrome oxidase and the alternative oxidase and a choice of pathways for energy flow. Alternative oxidase is encoded by a small nuclear gene family and appears to link mitochondrial energy balance and biosynthetic carbon metabolism, especially under stress condition. The goals of this study are to investigate nuclear/mitochondrial communication in plants using synthesis and activation of the alternative oxidase, and to investigate carbon/energy balance function of the alternative pathway respiration employing transgenic plants. The goal will be approached using genetic, molecular, biochemical and physiological analysis of plants in which the alternative oxidase is altered and in in-vitro assays.
