We study how plant species regulate osmotic adjustment during drought and re-adjustment during subsequent rehydration. Our research examines the mechanisms by which plants accumulate solutes under stress to maintain turgor and sustain cellular function at extremely low osmotic potentials. We investigate how plants get rid of or redistribute these solutes once water becomes available and the rate at which this osmotic readjustment occurs, ranging from minutes to hours or days. Additionally, we explore the physiological and biophysical risks associated with rapid turgor buildup during rehydration, which can compromise cell integrity or survival. Overall, our research aims to clarify the mechanisms, timing, and safety limits of osmotic re-adjustment in diverse plant species facing environmental stress.

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Student: Bogale Abebe Gebeyo

Collaborator: Prof. Shimon  Rachmilevitch