ASU researchers lead national discussion on biochemistry’s role in climate solutions

Climate change affects everything, from the air we breathe to the food we eat and even the medicines we use, and all life at the molecular level.

From coral bleaching to plant stress responses, understanding these biochemical mechanisms can help scientists develop new medicines, technologies, and policies to protect both people and nature in a changing world.

At the upcoming 2025 Annual Meeting of the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (ASBMB) two Arizona State University School of Molecular Sciences researchers are bringing together students and faculty from across the country to explore how molecular biochemistry plays a critical role in climate resilience and innovation.

Organized by Liza Roger, School of Molecular Sciences assistant professor and Alberto Rascon Jr., School of Molecular Sciences associate professor, the session, “Biochemistry and Climate Change: Molecular Responses and Innovations,” will facilitate dialogue on how plants, animals, and microscopic organisms adapt to climate stress at the biochemical level, and how these insights can help lead to new solutions.

“Biochemistry holds the key to understanding and combating climate change, offering scientific solutions that are both innovative and essential for planetary health,” said Roger, co-chair of the session and a speaker. “Through the lens of biochemistry, we can better grasp how ecosystems function, how carbon cycles through the environment, and how human activity is altering these natural processes, from urban areas to forests and coral reefs. By advancing biochemistry, we can unlock powerful solutions for carbon capture, sustainable energy production, and climate-resilience of peoples and ecosystems.”

“In a time when denial and misinformation threaten our collective future, it is critical to invest in the education and research that will empower individuals and communities to act decisively," Roger added. "Ignoring the role of biochemistry in this global crisis is not just a disservice to science, it is a disservice to the future of humanity and the planet we all share."

The session will take place April 12, 2025, in Chicago and will feature five invited speakers presenting research at the intersection of biochemistry and climate resilience:

• Dr. Liza Roger (Arizona State University) - Biochemistry and Climate Change: research and education

• Dr. Chuan He (University of Chicago) – Exploring how RNA demethylation regulates plant development.
• Dr. Nikki Traylor-Knowles (University of Miami) – Investigating how corals and other cnidarians respond to changing ocean conditions.
• Dr. Michaela TerAvest (Michigan State University) – Examining bioenergetics in engineering bioenergy solutions.
• Dr. D. Allan Drummond (University of Chicago) – Presenting work on adaptive biomolecular condensation.

The talks will highlight emerging research, bringing fresh ideas to the conversation.

“The guest speakers, including our very own Dr. Liza Roger, will highlight the importance of biochemistry in addressing solutions to the climate crisis,” said Rascon, a co-chair of the session, and whose own research lies at the interface of chemistry and mosquito biology which could lead to new ways to stop disease-carrying mosquitoes. “Their insights will not only deepen our understanding but also spark new ideas for sustainable solutions.”

For more information visit the 2025 ASBMB Annual Meeting website.