• Systemic signaling mechanism for integrating various plant developmental functions
• Role for plasmodesmata in transport of plant materials within plants
• Role of the plant vascular system in nutrient-stress signaling

His research interests involve the transport and function of signaling molecules (RNA, proteins) in the plant vascular system throughout the plant. His work has focused on the molecular pathways of protein and RNA transport through the phloem translocation stream. The phloem is the long distance transport system that moves sugars synthesized via photosynthesis in mature leaves to growing points in the plant, including the shoot, floral and root apices. His research has provided significant insights into the role played by the plant vascular system regarding the long-distance transport of information macromolecules.

As it has been known that the plant root is the primary organ for mineral nutrient uptake form the soil, and root-to-shoot and shoot-to-root signaling play pivotal roles in mineral nutrient uptake and transport throughout the plant, Brian is currently focusing on characterization of vascular system-mediated systemic signaling agents including mRNA and micro-RNA molecules and signaling proteins that function in the molecular regulation of macronutrient (N, Pi, and K) uptake by the roots. He utilizes functional genomics, physiological, molecular biological, and protein chemistry approaches to validate the role(s) that these systemic signals play in the integration of root and shoot growth, under optimal and nutrient-stress (mineral deficiency) conditions.