Research led by Texas A&M AgriLife scientist Shaodong Guo found that estrogen protects female mice from cardiomyopathy and death, reversing the effects of insulin resistance. The study suggests that estrogen replacement therapy may be a feasible treatment option for diabetic cardiomyopathy.
Researchers used drone data to analyze vegetation indicators, such as color appearances, to predict southern rust outbreaks. The study revealed a positive correlation between the presence of southern rust at grain-filling time and yield, enabling informed decision making for growers.
Researchers used CRISPR technology to modify the ratio of amylose and amylopectin in potatoes, increasing culinary and industrial uses. The study found that potatoes with high amylopectin content have potential applications in bioplastics, food additives, adhesives, and ethanol production.
Researchers are utilizing UAVs to capture real-time images of rice crops, extract crop phenotypic traits from the images, and analyze that information to discover superior, high-yielding rice genotypes. The team aims to develop automated algorithms to identify key traits and select best-performing rice genotypes.
A Texas A&M AgriLife team has described several protein structures of the C1 domain of protein kinase C, providing a reliable guide for designing drug candidates. The research sheds light on how C1 domains bind ligands and could lead to new treatments for diseases such as Alzheimer's, AIDS, and cancer.
Researchers at Texas A&M AgriLife have identified a novel species of pathogenic bacteria in onions, which can significantly impact marketable yield and quality. The discovery provides crucial information about the distribution and potential disease outbreaks of this newly documented pathogen, Pseudomonas uvaldensis sp. nov.
Researchers at Texas A&M AgriLife Research have developed a mechanism to make temporary genetic changes in mosquitoes that self-delete over time. This technology has the potential to help manage mosquito populations and prevent vector-borne diseases like West Nile virus without permanently altering wild populations' genetic makeup.
Two projects aim to develop novel acaricides and vaccines against cattle fever ticks, a growing threat to the US cattle industry. The grants seek to protect Texas cattle from deadly diseases like bovine babesiosis and anaplasmosis.
Researchers use artificial intelligence to predict algae's potential as a reliable, economic source for biofuel, overcoming challenges of low yield and high harvesting cost. The project aims to transform the bioeconomy by reducing petroleum dependency and alleviating climate change.
A Texas A&M research team is using dietary supplements of arginine and creatine to improve the overall litter weight and health of individual pig babies. The study's findings also have implications for human fetal development, as arginine plays a key role in pregnancy by promoting blood vessel growth and supporting fetal-placental growth.
The Texas A&M AgriLife team will develop a data management system to process, analyze and deliver high-throughput phenotyping data gathered by drones and sensors. This centralized hub will enhance understanding of growth dynamics and genotype x environment interactions for wheat breeders.
A new study by Texas A&M AgriLife researchers shows bioenergy sorghum can sequester significant amounts of atmospheric carbon dioxide in soil, improving fertility. The crop's deep root system can reach untapped sources of water and nutrients, making it a sustainable option for biomass production.
A new project funded by the National Institute of Food and Agriculture aims to reduce foodborne illnesses by developing novel spraying and dipping solutions for farming tools and accessories. The technology will also help minimize water usage in cleaning and sanitizing processes.
A $7 million project aims to advance new therapies for citrus greening disease by employing technologies developed in the past. The team will work on two main types of treatment to overcome the challenges of reaching infected inner parts of trees and testing treatments in groves already infected with the disease-causing bacteria.
A Texas A&M AgriLife Research project aims to eliminate beef cattle pregnancy loss using CRISPR/Cas9 technology. The researchers are studying the role of glycoproteins in embryo loss, with a focus on gene knockout technology, and aim to develop management strategies to prevent reproductive inefficiency in the beef industry.
A new study reveals a cost-effective method to produce biodegradable plastics from corn stubble, grasses, and mesquite, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional fossil fuel-based plastics. This breakthrough enables the creation of eco-friendly bioplastics that can replace conventional plastics in various industries.
Researchers are using sheep to investigate the multigenerational effects of prenatal exposure to androgen excess and explore dietary interventions to prevent PCOS. The study aims to provide crucial biological information for improving reproductive function across generations and has clinical relevance to women with PCOS.
A study from Texas A&M AgriLife Communications reveals that membrane-localized phage proteins may help revitalize and enhance existing antibiotics. Researchers identified 35 unique lysis genes in E. coli bacteria, which could potentially represent new mechanisms for bacterial cell lysis.
A new Texas A&M AgriLife Research project aims to enable temporary genetic changes in mosquitoes, which then remove themselves from the population. The goal is to test and fine-tune a self-deleting gene technology to control mosquito populations and prevent disease transmission.
Researchers at Texas A&M AgriLife Communications have discovered that some phages can stop bacteria from sharing genes for antibiotic resistance by attaching to and disarming pili on bacterial surface. This discovery may lead to new treatments for infections, reducing the need for antibiotics or gentler alternatives.
Researchers have discovered a crucial connection between calcium, energy production, and cardiolipin in heart muscles affected by Barth syndrome. This understanding may lead to new insights into the disease's symptoms and treatment options.
Menkes disease is a rare genetic disorder caused by a copper deficiency, leading to severe brain damage and neuromuscular deficits. Researchers from Texas A¼M have found promising results using the cancer drug elesclomol to deliver copper to tissues and restore energy production.
A handheld spectrometer has been developed to determine THC levels in cannabis plants, enabling farmers and law enforcement to quickly identify whether a plant is hemp or marijuana. The test distinguishes between various hemp and marijuana varieties with high accuracy.
Researchers have discovered that indole, a natural compound found in gut bacteria and cruciferous vegetables, can reduce inflammation and fatty deposits in the liver. This study provides hope for new treatments and preventive measures for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).
A recent study published in Scientific Reports found that simple leaf wounding in plants can increase the production of healthier organic fruit. The research team discovered that stress responses created in the fruits and vegetables lead to an increase in antioxidant compounds prior to harvest, making them healthier for human consumption.
Researchers aim to understand the genomic basis of southern pine beetle infestation behavior, predicting and controlling large-scale tree kills. The project seeks to identify genetic changes linked to outbreaks, enabling better forest management and monitoring.
The study found that individuals are more likely to cheat due to their personal propensity rather than external factors. In the experiment, participants showed no significant change in cheating behavior during periods of scarcity or abundance.
Researchers at Texas A&M AgriLife Research have developed novel coatings with nanotechnology-based surface textures and chemistry to prevent microorganism attachment on various food products. The goal is to reduce the risk of biofilm formation and cross-contamination, ensuring safer produce for consumers.
A global team of researchers proposes a new approach to managing weeds by considering their impact on society as a whole. The team suggests that traditional methods focus too much on individual landowners and instead recommends a cross-boundary approach that prioritizes shared goals and collective interests.
Insect-killing nematodes produce distinctive chemical cues that both plants and insects respond to, enhancing plant defenses and deterring Colorado potato beetle eggs. This discovery offers growers additional benefits from using EPNs for biological control of insect pests.
A Texas A&M-led study reveals that estrogen can decrease insulin resistance and glucose production, reducing Type 2 diabetes incidences. The study highlights the importance of estrogen receptor signaling and Foxo1-mediated gluconeogenesis in regulating glucose homeostasis.
A team of researchers discovered that North American flying squirrels fluoresce pink under ultraviolet light, with the purpose still unknown. The discovery was made possible by a graduate student who helped develop a protocol to further investigate the phenomenon.
A Texas A&M-led study reveals that transcription factor Foxo1 plays a crucial role in regulating blood glucose levels and may serve as a key therapeutic target for preventing Type 2 diabetes. By understanding the molecular mechanism of Foxo1, researchers aim to develop novel interventions for controlling blood glucose homeostasis.
Researchers found the Conchos shiner in the mainstream of the Rio Grande at a site previously thought to be free from non-native species. The discovery highlights the need for further research and conservation efforts in the Rio Grande drainage system.
A team of scientists will investigate solutions to limit the impact of annual bluegrass on turf systems, evaluating cultural practices and non-chemical management options. The project aims to improve profitability and social benefits for sod production farms, golf courses, athletic fields, and residential turf systems.
Researchers have identified elesclomol as a potential treatment for human copper metabolism disorders by restoring mitochondrial energy production. The study found that elesclomol can mimic the missing transporters of copper, providing a new opportunity to treat genetic disorders such as Menkes disease.
A recent Texas A&M AgriLife study reveals that dietary exposure to bisphenol-A (BPA) can increase mortality and worsen symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Researchers found BPA altered gut microbial amino acid metabolism, leading to increased inflammation and reduced compound production related to serotonin breakdown.
Researchers at Texas A&M AgriLife have developed a fertilizer system that applies phosphite to engineered cotton crops, allowing them to utilize the nutrient while suppressing weeds. This technology has shown promise in inhibiting growth of glyphosate-resistant Palmer amaranth and other herbicide-resistant weeds.
Researchers developed an animal probiotic that can reduce methane emissions and prevent nitrite poisoning in cattle. The probiotic uses a bacteria-based approach to increase feed efficiency and decrease pathogen carriage, with potential benefits for greenhouse gas reduction.
Researchers uncover the role of SWI2/SNF2 ATPase in microRNA production, revealing a unique gene-editing target to control microRNA levels. The protein has two separate functions: one for its native chromatin and another for the microRNA-producing factory.
A Texas A&M AgriLife Research study shows that commercially available resistant sorghum varieties provide adequate protection against the sugarcane aphid. The study also found that beneficial predators are readily attracted to aphid-infested sorghum, improving biological control of aphids.
The Foundation for Food and Agriculture Research has awarded a $5 million grant to Texas A&M AgriLife Research to develop and adopt water and energy-efficient irrigation technologies. The grant will be matched by project partners, totaling $10 million over five years. Researchers will focus on precision application systems, weather pre...
Researchers discovered the role of adenosine 2A receptor in preventing NAFLD, showing disrupted receptors lead to increased inflammation and fat deposition. The study validates this receptor as a potential therapeutic target for treating non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
A recent simulation study by Texas A&M AgriLife Research team found that winter wheat is a viable cover crop option for Rolling Plains cotton production. The study showed no significant impact of winter wheat on soil moisture and yield in both irrigated and dryland systems.
A new study reveals that slight climate shifts can significantly affect the optimal water use of plant communities, with potential consequences for forests, grasslands, and deserts. The research uses a model to predict how rainfall is shared among plants, humans, and other factors in a changing climate.
Researchers have identified genetic markers for greenbug and Hessian fly resistance in wheat, providing a new tool for breeders to combat these pests. The discovery enables the efficient transfer of resistant genes into new wheat lines using marker-assisted selection.
Researchers have identified key genes that regulate water-efficient photosynthesis in pineapple and other CAM plants. This breakthrough could lead to improved water use efficiency in C3 crops, allowing them to thrive in environments previously inhospitable to them.
Researchers are struggling to develop better varieties of crops like coffee and bananas due to the complexity of their multiple chromosomes. A $47,000 grant is funding an international meeting to collaborate and compare findings on polyploid crops.
Researchers at Texas A&M AgriLife Research have discovered a long non-coding RNA that increases thale cress plants' resistance to drought and salt stress. Increasing the lncRNA's levels shows corresponding increases in drought and salt tolerance.
A $3.3 million grant will fund a study to manage crapemyrtle bark scale, a new, devastating exotic pest impacting the industry's $66 million worth of crapemyrtle sales. The study aims to develop effective control methods and improve understanding of consumer preferences.