Research Topics
Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Services
Ph.D. (1981) University of California, Riverside
Research Topics
Research Interests
1) Metabolic pathways for phytomedicinal compound production. We are conducting studies to identify the specific biochemical pathway reactions involved in production of a variety of phytomedicinal chemicals. We are also studying how these pathways are modulated by environmental parameters such as plant mineral nutrient status, light intensity and water status. We are examining the role of leaf secretory structures in the biosynthesis and storage of phytomedicinal chemicals and other natural products.
2) Tissue culture production of phyomedicinal chemicals. We have established plant tissue cultures of several medicinal plants including St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum), Echinacea (E. angustifolia, E. purpurea) and Kava-Kava (Piper methysticum) and are examining the extent of phytomedicinal chemical production in vitro. In addition, such tissue cultures will be used as a tool to further examine the biochemistry of the metabolic pathways for these chemicals.
3) Computer simulation modeling of herbicide metabolism. We have developed a computer simulation model which describes the uptake, whole plant allocation pattern and metabolism of foliar-applied herbicides. This model has been validated by the observation of a close correspondence between predicted values and those found from data in the literature. Moreover, the model has been further validated by experimental studies conducted in the laboratory. This model is currently being utilized for the design of novel herbicide molecules yielding a high efficiency of action with low rates of application.
Key Words
Phytomedicines, Plant Natural Products, Plant Secondary Metabolism, Plant Tissue
Culture, Metabolic Regulation, Computer Simulation Models in Biochemistry
Current Research Funding
NIH, Functional Foods for Health, Hatch Industry