Tim Thomsen

While TIR-domain NLR immune receptors (TIR-NLRs) and similar TIR-domain-containing proteins are traditionally associated with plant pathogen defense during the effector-triggered immunity (ETI) response, the general knowledge of their activity and role in plant roots is still limited. Emerging evidence suggests they also influence the establishment of mutualistic plant-microbe associations and plant responses to abiotic factors such as salt and osmotic stress, highlighting their broader role in root-environment interactions. By elucidating the multifunctional role of root TIR-NLRs / TIR-domain-proteins and how they relate to biotic and abiotic environmental factors, the project aims to provide new insights into the coordination of plant immunity, symbiosis and stress resilience in the roots of thale cress (Arabidopsis thaliana) and barley (Hordeum vulgare).