Learning Through Research
Doctoral student Praveena Suresh is investigating the protein import system that builds and maintains chloroplasts.
Drawn to UT by the opportunity to investigate important biological questions through multidisciplinary research, doctoral student Praveena Suresh studies a fundamental process that is essential for photosynthesis but is still not well understood.
“My research focuses on the TOC and TIC protein import complexes that transport thousands of proteins into the chloroplasts,” she said. “This is like a highly regulated shipping and customs system, where each protein has to be accurately recognized, transported, and delivered to the correct location at the right time. Without this process, chloroplasts can’t function properly and plants struggle to grow and develop.”
“We’re beginning to realize these protein complexes are far more dynamic than previously thought,” she continued. “They appear to change their composition and organization depending on a plant’s developmental stage or environmental conditions. I’m interested in understanding how these complexes assemble, reorganize, and function in living chloroplasts, where they naturally exist—instead of only studying them in isolated laboratory systems—and also probe them as a function of development.”
Using advanced microscopy and imaging, Suresh aims to visualize these protein complexes in action and better understand how they work together in real time. “By filling these gaps, my research would contribute to the understanding of basic protein import biology and may ultimately provide insights that could help improve crop productivity and food security,” she said.
Her interest in understanding how plants grow and develop was fueled by an undergraduate research experience propagating wild orchids for commercial production, using different fruit and vegetable extracts as components of the growth medium. “It was exciting to see that these natural extracts had different effects on the culture; some promoted plant growth while others inhibited it,” Suresh said. “What was more exciting was that there was no literature at that time that cited some of the observed phenomena—it was like a few of us discovered something new.”
While pursuing a master’s degree in plant biology and biotechnology, she explored biological processes at a deeper level using biochemical and biophysical approaches. Her research focused on Dunaliella salina, a highly salt-tolerant microalga known for producing valuable carotenoids. “I explored ways to modulate photosystems to improve photosynthetic efficiency and to enhance its potential as a bioreactor for carotenoid production,” she said. “It was exciting to work on a project with both fundamental and applied significance, and this tremendously sparked my interest in photosynthesis and plant biology.”
Research Opportunity at UT
Colleagues in her master’s program spoke highly about the research environment at UT, an R1 research institution. Then she met BCMB Professor Barry Bruce at an international conference in India. “I was deeply inspired by the research he presented and by the department’s multidisciplinary approaches to addressing important biological questions,” she said. “UT offered the kind of environment I was looking for, with many opportunities for advanced research, collaboration, and learning through research.”
When she came to UT in 2023, she was drawn to the Bruce Lab, which focuses on fundamental questions in chloroplast biology. “The opportunity to investigate such an essential yet understudied system excited me,” she said. “My project also involved collaborative approaches, and I knew that working with researchers of different expertise would provide me with valuable new perspectives.”
She was particularly interested in understanding the protein import apparatus within chloroplasts and using techniques like electron microscopy and confocal microscopy.
“The first time I saw an electron microscopy image that I had generated from my own research was an unforgettable moment,” she said. “Seeing the detailed structures inside the chloroplast and being able to visualize where my protein was located made the concepts I had studied in textbooks feel so real. It was exciting to see how a technique could transform a biological question into something we could observe with our own eyes. That experience really strengthened my appreciation for microscopy, as well as research.”
Because her work involves collaboration among two labs, she has been able to access specialized resources and expertise from other groups, such as using super-resolution microscopy facilities. “This culture of collaboration allows us to learn from each other and approach research questions from different perspectives,” Suresh said. “Beyond research, I love the supportive and welcoming atmosphere within the department, where people are always willing to help and encourage one another.”
“I also value the many opportunities the department provides for us to share our work, whether through presentations, seminars, or discussions, and receive constructive feedback that helps us grow as scientists,” she said.
Outside of the lab, Suresh enjoys spending time with friends and listening to music. “Cooking is one of my favorite ways to relax and de-stress, and I enjoy experimenting with different dishes,” she said. “I also love coloring, which gives me a chance to slow down, be creative, and take a break from the fast pace of research.”