Dr Mamoru Okamoto

My research interest is all about nitrogen from simple molecule such as nitric oxide (NO) to more complex molecules including amino acids and proteins. Nitrogen (N) is an essential nutrient for plant growth and development. Therefore, N fertilisers are one of the highest input costs for crop productions. However, N use efficiency of crop plants are relatively low and excess fertilisers run off and cause pollutions. One of my research questions is how can plants use nitrogen fertilisers more efficiently? To answer this question, we try to find genetic diversity for N use and identify genes responsible for better N uptake and utilization in wheat. We also conduct research on grain quality especially protein content, which is an important criteria for grain classification, and highly influenced by N status of plants. We use genetic approaches to dissect the mechanisms of grain protein accumulation, and aim to increase protein content without compromising other good traits. My other interests include N uptake from roots and shoots, N transporters, and NO synthesis and signalling in plants.    

I lead the nitrogen program of the ARC Industrial Transformation Research Hub for Wheat, and an ARC Linkage project.

For more information: http://www.wheathub.com.au/