Exploring the evolution of lignin metabolism

Assistant Professor (Genomic Functional Biochemistry)

KIMURA Yuri

Our laboratory investigates metabolism of plant-derived aromatic compounds, with a special focus on lignin, a crucial component of lignocellulosic biomass. Lignin, vital for plant structure and water transport, displays remarkable interspecies variability, notably in Poaceae (grasses). While this diversity likely contributed to their evolutionary success, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain unclear. Utilizing genomic resources from grass sister lineages, we aim to elucidate these mechanisms through in silico, biochemical, and chemical analyses. As lignin constitutes 20-30% of plant biomass and represents a promising source of aromatics, and considering the high growth rate of grasses as a critical biomass source, a comprehensive understanding of structural diversity of grass lignin is vital for efficient plant biomass utilization.

▲Evolutionary diversification of lignin structure in land plants

▲Plant species used in the study of Poaceae evolution

▲Generating transgenic plants to study the metabolism