The KBC Days 2009 will take place on 16-17 November 2009

All members of the KBC-Departments are welcome to two days of communication, celebration and inspiration. We cordially invite our research partners and friends who like to learn more about our centre.

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Title: Zeaxanthin in connection to photosynthesis and vision
Prof. Hans-Erik Åkerlund, Dept. of Biochemistry, Lund University
Place: KB3A9 "Lilla hörsalen", KBC

Abstract:
Oxidative stress is one the more important causes for damage of component of living cells. The combination of light, oxygen and red-ox carriers is particularly harmful and generates reactive oxygen species. This is the situation both in the photosynthetic system and in the retina of the eye. Although living systems have developed numerous systems to coop with this, damage may still occur, especially under stress conditions, leading to photoinhibition in plants and loss of vision humans. Zeaxanthin appears to have a central role for protection in these systems. The presentation will deal with regulatory aspects on the generation of zeaxanthin by the enzyme violaxanthin de-epoxidase, effects on membrane packing but also the application of this knowledge to improve the nutritional value of harvested vegetables.

Title: Regulation and evolution of growth patterns in a tree
Lecturer: Victor Busov, School of Forest Resources and Environmental Science, Michigan Technological University, USA
Place: KB3A9 "Lilla hörsalen", KBC