Shan Lu

Title: The Innovations of Shan Lu

Introduction

Shan Lu is an accomplished inventor based in Ithaca, NY (US). He has made significant contributions to the field of plant genetics, particularly through his research on the Or gene in cauliflower. His work has implications for enhancing carotenoid accumulation in various crops.

Latest Patents

Shan Lu holds one patent related to the Or gene, which is a semi-dominant, single-locus mutation. This gene induces the accumulation of high levels of beta-carotene in tissues that typically lack carotenoids, resulting in an orange coloration. Through a map-based cloning strategy, he identified a candidate gene representing Or and verified its identity through phenotypic complementation in wild-type cauliflower. The Or gene encodes a plastid membrane protein containing the DnaJ zinc finger domain. A gain-of-function mutation from a 4.3-kb retrotransposon insertion in the Or allele is responsible for the orange phenotype in the mutant. Southern blot analysis confirmed that Or is a single-copy sequence in the cauliflower genome. High levels of expression of the Or gene and protein were found in very young leaves, curds, and flowers, showing comparable abundance between wild type and the Or mutant. The Or gene likely regulates the differentiation of non-photosynthetic plastids into chromoplasts, which serve as a deposition sink for carotenoid accumulation. Notably, Or orthologs with high sequence homology were identified in other higher plants, including tomato, maize, and rice. The successful phenotypic complementation of Or provides strong evidence that it can enhance carotenoid accumulation across different species.

Career Highlights

Shan Lu has worked with notable organizations, including the United States of America, as represented by the Secretary of Agriculture, and the Boyce Thompson Institute Inc. His research has contributed to advancements in agricultural biotechnology and plant genetics.

Collaborations

Shan Lu has collaborated with esteemed colleagues, including Li Li and David F Garvin, to further his research and innovations in the field.

Conclusion

Shan Lu's work on the Or gene represents a significant advancement in plant genetics, with the potential to enhance carotenoid levels in various crops. His contributions continue to influence agricultural research and innovation.