Yue Li

I am interested in the functions of membraneless organelles formed through liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS).

Previous studies have shown that proteins involved in siRNA biogenesis assemble into cytoplasmic condensates, known as siRNA bodies, upon pathogen infection. Using the Arabidopsis–Phytophthora capsici pathosystem, I aim to elucidate the functions of these infection-induced siRNA bodies. Specifically, I seek to understand why these phase-separated condensates assemble and what molecular processes take place within them.

Ultimately, I hope to uncover how siRNA bodies contribute to plant immunity and determine whether manipulating their formation can enhance plant resistance to P. capsici.