معرفی
Brian Ayre is a Professor in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at the University of North Texas (UNT). His research focuses on plant molecular biology, biochemistry, and agricultural biotechnology, particularly the phloem transport system's role as a whole-plant communication network.
Dr. Ayre's lab investigates two primary areas: (1) phloem's role in coordinating carbon metabolism and nutrient utilization between source and sink organs, and (2) phloem-mediated transport of signaling molecules that regulate growth patterns. These studies aim to understand and manipulate plant yield, biomass partitioning, and developmental networks.
Current grant-funded projects include initiatives for non-GMO pest-resistant cotton (USDA NIFA AFRI, Cotton Incorporated, BARD Fund) and infrastructure development (USDA NIFA Equipment Grant). His work employs advanced tools in molecular biology, metabolic engineering, and virus-based gene delivery systems.
- USDA NIFA AFRI: $294,000 (2021-2024) for gene-editing cotton oxylipin pathways
- Cotton Incorporated: Multiple projects (~$25,000-50,000/year) for pest resistance and plant architecture optimization
- BARD Fund: $310,000 (2019-2023) for meristem homeostasis research in cotton
