We have identified zinc as a novel plant secondary signal and its sensor, the transcription factor Fixation Under Nitrate (FUN), which plays a key role in regulating nitrogen fixation in legumes (Lin et al., Nature, 2024). However, the mechanisms underlying the generation and decoding of this signal remain completely unknown. To address this, we will employ genetic, physical, and biochemical approaches to elucidate the regulation of nuclear zinc concentration in response to environmental changes. Furthermore, we will integrate structural biology and genetic analyses to determine how FUN specifically senses zinc and regulates downstream genes to control nitrogen fixation.

The nitrogen fixation capacity of root nodules is constrained by both internal and external factors, such as nitrogen demand and unfavourable environmental conditions. We will integrate transcriptomic, genetic, cell biological, and biochemical approaches to investigate the nitrogen fixation potential of nodules and elucidate the underlying mechanisms.

The efficiency of nitrogen fixation in the field is often low due to nitrogen fertiliser application and abiotic stresses. To address this, we will first identify common genes and regulatory mechanisms. We will then optimise these factors to enhance nodule resilience to changing environmental conditions. Finally, we will apply this knowledge to legumes to promote sustainable agriculture.