Interview with Prof. Emilio Gutiérrez
Prof. Emilio Gutiérrez
- Please tell us about yourself and your research/institution.
I am a group leader at the Plant Biology and Biochemistry institute, a Joint Centre of the University of Seville (USE) and the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC). The IBVF is specialized in the study of phototrophic biology in a broad sense, with the distinctive feature of developing research with all types of oxygenic photosynthetic organisms: cyanobacteria, algae and plants. The research of my group is focused on the understanding the key role stress granules (SGs) in plant stress response. SGs are phase-separated bimolecular condensates formed by proteins and mRNAs assembled in response to stress. The formation of SGs minimizes stress-related damage and promotes cell survival, although the molecular mechanisms underlying pro-survival effects of SGs remain to be established. In contrast to the prominence of research on stress granule in animal and yeast models, in plants, SGs have only received limited attention. Our goal is to establish a profound conceptual and experimental framework allowing us to understand the molecular pathways underlying formation of SGs in plants, which will be used as a basis to finally demonstrate how the formation of these condensates promotes stress resistance and cell survival in plants.
- What motivated you to get into plant science?
Since I was a child, I have been fascinated by the plant world. I am curious to learn how a sessile organism can perceive, respond to, and defend itself against external stimuli, adapting to an increasingly hostile environment. This curiosity drives me to explore the intricate mechanisms that allow plants to survive and thrive despite the challenges they face. Understanding their resilience not only deepens my admiration for them but also fuels my passion for research.
- How have you used (Agrisera) antibodies in your research?
Agrisera is making a significant contribution for the plant science community by developing a wide range of antibodies targeting plant proteins. Protein detection by antibodies is a crucial tool for advancing scientific research. Before Agrisera, there was no company dedicated exclusively to the development of antibodies against plant proteins, filling a vital gap in the field.
Links
• Prof. Emilio Gutiérrez
• Prof. Emilio Gutiérrez’s research group
• Agrisera antibodies to proteins involved in plant stress response
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2025-06-11