Kenji Fukushima

Genome evolution and convergent innovation in the carnivorous plant Sarracenia purpurea

This study presents a chromosome-scale genome assembly for Sarracenia purpurea and identifies genomic mechanisms underlying convergent evolution in carnivorous plants.

Transcriptomic prey-capture responses in convergently evolved carnivorous pitcher plants

This study compares gene expression responses in two carnivorous pitcher plants, finding shared transcriptional patterns and distinct regulatory mechanisms in digestive enzyme genes.

Convergent losses of arbuscular mycorrhizal symbiosis in carnivorous plants

This study investigates the loss of arbuscular mycorrhizal symbiosis in carnivorous plants, finding convergent losses and rare coexistence with carnivory.

Centromere divergence and allopolyploidy reshape carnivorous sundew genomes

The paper investigates how centromere divergence and allopolyploidy influence genome evolution in carnivorous sundews, revealing structural differences between species with distinct chromosomal architectures.

Emergence of isochorismate-based salicylic acid biosynthesis within Brassicales

This study identifies the emergence of the isochorismate-based salicylic acid biosynthesis pathway within the Brassicales order through evolutionary analysis of key enzymes.

Impaired trap closure in the counting-deficient Venus flytrap mutant DYSCALCULIA is caused by cell wall biomechanics

This study identifies impaired cell wall biomechanics as the cause of delayed trap closure in the Venus flytrap mutant DYSCALCULIA, linking mechanosensing and Ca2+ signaling to trap kinetics.

Molecular basis behind the isoprene emission diversity in Fagaceae

The paper identifies the IspS gene responsible for isoprene emission in Quercus serrata and shows functional differences in related genes from non-emitting species.

Convergent Acquisition of Glucomannan β-galactosyltransferases in Asterids and Rosids

This study identifies a convergent evolution of MBGT genes in asterids and rosids, showing different evolutionary pathways for similar biochemical functions.

Genome sequence of 12 Vigna species as a knowledge base of stress tolerance and resistance

This study presents long-read genome assemblies of 12 Vigna species, revealing new WOX transcription factors and transcriptional changes linked to stress tolerance.