Genome sequences provide limited information about the function of the genes they contain. But they can be viewed as lists of parts that enable reverse genetics approaches impossible to conceive before. Our aim is to conduct functional screens by introducing genetic perturbations at a large scale in plant cells.

Our concrete objective is to set up alternative approaches to rapidly identify components potentially involved in selected molecular mechanisms and, more specifically, in the control of cell growth and cell division. For that purpose, we are optimizing methods for functional screens in Arabidopsis cells via gain-of-function (ORF expression) and loss-of-function (RNAi) genetic perturbations. We particularly focus on the development of parallel gene delivery protocols, automation, HTP format, and markers for high content screens.