We focus on genes that regulate various aspects of wood development. We study genes that contribute to cell division activity in vascular cambium, the meristem between xylem (wood) and phloem.
Understanding the regulation of the cambium activity enhancing factors might provide novel means to produce more biomass in trees. Also, we investigate genetics that regulate the morphogenesis of tree shoot system architecture.
We believe our research contributes to environmentally sound forest management, more efficient fruit and nut production, and aesthetics of common areas. To achieve our goals, we mainly use Populus trichocarpa and Betula pendula as model species.
Our main research interests are:
Yrjö Helariutta, Professor
Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences
Institute of Biotechnology, HiLIFE
Biocenter 3, room 6713
PL 65 (Viikinkaari 1)
00014 University of Helsinki
Finland
tel: +358 40 720 1968
Email: yrjo.helariutta@helsinki.fi
Yrjö 'Ykä' is a Principal Investigator/Group Leader at BI and Professor of Plant Developmental Biology at the Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Helsinki and at the University of Cambridge, UK, and. He will hold a position of Academy Professor for a term of 1 September 2021–31 August 2026.