Expert Source: S. Christopher Wolverton, Ph.D.

Chris Wolverton’s research interests include how plants integrate signals such as light, touch, and gravity to influence growth and development. His laboratory uses a combination of molecular genetics, biophysics, and real-time computer image analysis to uncover the mechanisms driving differential growth in plants. In 1998, he sent an experiment into low-Earth orbit aboard the Space Shuttle to probe the role of electrical signaling in root gravity responses.

Education:

• B.S., Miami University
• Ph.D., The Ohio State University

Areas of Expertise:

• Primary root gravitropism (directional growth response related to gravity)
• Lateral root gravitropic signaling and root system architecture
• Root phototropism
• Plant development
• Plant molecular genetics
• Confocal microscopy

Selected Publications:

• Mullen JL, Wolverton C, Hangarter RP. 2005. Apical control, gravitropic signaling, and the growth of lateral roots in Arabidopsis. Advances Space Res 36: 1211-1217.
• Ottenschlager I, Wolff P, Wolverton C, Bhalerao RP, Sandberg G, Ishikawa H, Evans ML, Palme K. 2003. Gravity-regulated differential auxin transport from columella to lateral root cap cells. Proc Nat Acad Sci 100: 2987-2991.
• Wolverton C, Ishikawa H, Evans ML. 2002. The Kinetics of Root Gravitropism: Dual Motors and Sensors. J Plant Growth Regulation 21: 102-112.
• Wolverton C, Mullen JL, Ishikawa H, Evans ML. 2002. Root gravitropism in response to a signal originating outside of the cap. Planta 215: 153-157.
• Mullen JL, Wolverton C, Ishikawa H, Hangarter, RP, Evans ML. 2002. Spatial separation of light perception and growth response in maize root phototropism. Plant, Cell and Environment 25: 1191-1196.