Agricultural Biotechnology
Articles tagged with Agricultural Biotechnology
Swansea spin-out Bionema Group receives second King’s Award for Enterprise
Bionema Group Ltd, a Swansea University spin-out, has received the second King's Award for Enterprise: Sustainable Development. The company develops biological pest control and sustainable agriculture technologies, providing environmentally sustainable alternatives to synthetic pesticides.
Novin AgriTech receives USDA grant to develop novel traits for wheat, accelerate trait integration
Novin AgriTech received an $174,906 USD grant from the US Department of Agriculture to develop nitrogen use efficiency trait in elite wheat cultivars. The company's platform technology will introduce genetic tools to improve nitrogen use efficiency.
Boyce Thompson Institute awarded USDA grant to advance youth education in plant biotechnology across New York state
The Boyce Thompson Institute has received a multi-year award from the USDA's FANE program to expand access to biotechnology education for K-12 students. The P-BIOTEK initiative will create hands-on learning opportunities and community science programs to introduce students to plant biotechnology, bioengineering, and science communication.
Integration of two genes: A valuable strategy for developing virus-resistant tomatoes
Researchers discovered a combination of Ty-1/Ty-3 and Ty-6 resistance genes in tomato plants provides highly robust protection against begomoviruses. Integration of fewer resistance genes than expected can enhance resistance, offering a promising approach for improving tomato varieties while balancing productivity and fruit quality.
Drones, DNA, and weather: A phase-oriented hybrid engine to predict sugar beet disease
Researchers developed a hybrid engine to predict sugar beet disease by combining drone images, weather data, and qPCR-based airborne spore monitoring. The system reduced prediction error by up to 39% and provided accurate forecasts of disease severity.
Biochar–microbe partnership unlocks soil phosphorus and boosts tomato yields
Researchers found that combining biochar with beneficial bacteria significantly improves phosphorus availability, reshaping plant development and increasing crop yields in greenhouse-grown cherry tomatoes. The study also showed that this approach can enhance soil fertility and crop productivity without increasing fertilizer inputs.
Nano-enabled biochar fertilizers help rice grow safer in contaminated soils
A new study reveals that nano-biochar fertilizers can actively regulate soil processes and help protect rice from harmful metal accumulation. The findings show improved rice growth, enhanced soil biological activity, and reduced cadmium and arsenic uptake in contaminated soils.
Trace levels of food pathogen do not always translate to health risk, says study
A study by Frontiers in Science argues that ultra-sensitive food safety tests may drive food waste and unavailability, but not always translate to health risk. The researchers propose a more balanced approach that considers trade-offs between food safety, sustainability, and nutritional health.
Frontiers in Science Deep Dive webinar series: Trace levels of foodborne pathogens do not always translate to health risk, says study
A new study suggests that ultra-sensitive food safety tests may drive food waste and unavailability without significant public health benefits. The researchers propose using more flexible risk-based approaches to align food safety policies with sustainability goals.
BRIGHT at DTU partners with Novonesis in effort to turn captured CO₂ into nutritious protein
BRIGHT at DTU joins forces with Novonesis to develop microbes that can efficiently utilize acetic acid produced from captured carbon, enabling the production of sustainable protein. The collaboration aims to accelerate microbial fermentation and reduce costs, ultimately contributing to a circular bioeconomy.
Salad packs a healthy punch to meet a growing Vitamin B12 need
Researchers used aeroponic technology to grow pea shoots fortified with Vitamin B12, delivering the recommended daily allowance in a single serving. The fortified crop maintained shelf-life and persisted through cold storage, offering a commercially viable approach to dietary supplementation.
300 million years of hidden genetic instructions shaping plant evolution revealed
Researchers have uncovered the regulatory blueprint of plants, revealing a 300 million-year-old conserved regulatory code that guides plant development and shapes their diversity. This discovery opens new avenues for precision breeding and synthetic biology, and has significant implications for agriculture.
Putting some ‘muscle’ into material design
Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis have created protein fibers that can exhibit high tensile strength, toughness, and mechanical stability, making them suitable for active wear and biomedical implants. The materials are grown using synthetic biology approaches and can be processed into a meat-like structure.
UTA opens AI-driven Smart Agriculture Research Center
The center aims to strengthen food and environmental resilience, train the next generation of AI-enabled agricultural scientists, and help producers respond to emerging biological and climate threats. Students are immersed in federal agricultural research projects through a USDA-supported summer research program.
Sugar beet, oilseed rape, tomatoes and dandelions: four precision breeding projects win major funding to support UK agriculture
The John Innes Centre has been awarded £21.5m in funding to support four precision breeding projects, aiming to reduce emissions and strengthen crop resilience. These projects will help protect two major agricultural crops from diseases, enhance the nutritional content of tomatoes, and develop sustainable sources of rubber.
Farm waste could lock away carbon for decades
Agricultural waste from crops like wheat, rice, and maize can act as a powerful carbon sink when diverted into construction products. The study finds that these materials can store carbon for decades rather than releasing it within months.
Tailored biochar could transform how crops grow, resist disease, and clean polluted soils
Engineered biochar shows promise in boosting crop yields, suppressing soil-borne diseases, and remediating contaminated land. Purpose-specific design is essential for optimal performance.
Gamma rays quickly toughen nitrogen‑fixing bacteria
Researchers at QST discovered that controlled gamma-ray mutagenesis can create heat-tolerant nitrogen-fixing bacteria in weeks, shortening development timelines. The method produces robust, climate-ready microbial products for agriculture, food processing, pharmaceuticals, and biofuel production.
Researchers revive old pea varieties in huge seed collection: ‘An untapped gold mine for the future’
A new AI method has identified 51 old pea varieties with high starch and protein content, potentially suitable for producing plant-based foods. The study shows a close relationship between seed appearance and chemical composition, enabling partial prediction of properties based on images.
Plants balance adaptability in skin cells with stability in sex cells
Researchers found that DNA mutations accumulate more frequently in stem cells producing plant skin compared to those producing eggs and sperm. This layered stem cell architecture allows plants to regulate mutation rates in different cells to optimize success and offspring stability.
Year-round edamame: hydroponic LED plant factories redefine sustainable cultivation
Researchers at Hosei University developed a hydroponic cultivation system using LED lighting to produce high-quality edamame consistently throughout the year. The nutrient film technique (NFT) method resulted in higher yields, better nutritional value, and increased productivity compared to traditional open-field cultivation.
New study explores ‘legacy effects’ of soil microbes on plants across Kansas
A new study analyzing soils across Kansas found that the legacy effects of soil microbes can have significant impacts on plant growth, particularly for native species. Researchers discovered that plants grown with microbes adapted to specific local conditions performed better under drought conditions, suggesting a potential source of g...
Synthetic biology to supercharge photosynthesis in crops
Australian researchers have developed tiny compartments to help supercharge photosynthesis, enabling plants to fix carbon more efficiently. The team engineered encapsulins that can house the enzyme Rubisco in a confined space, allowing for fine-tuning of compatibility for future use in crops.
Making yeast more efficient 'cell factories' for producing valuable plant compounds
Researchers at UC San Diego have discovered a new way to make yeast cells more efficient 'cell factories' for producing valuable plant compounds. The advance enables the sustainable manufacturing of plant-derived chemicals used to help plants defend against disease, repel pests, attract pollinators, and withstand environmental stresses.
Winners of Applied Microbiology International Horizon Awards 2025 announced
The winners of the Applied Microbiology International Horizon Awards 2025 have been recognized for their groundbreaking contributions to global challenges through applied microbiology. The awards celebrate excellence across various domains, including drug discovery and sustainable agriculture.
In chromosome of key biotech bacterium, different setups bring different strengths
Researchers found that Agrobacterium's virulence is more effective in its natural two-chromosome state, but it grows faster and handles stress better when fused into a single chromosome. This study opens the door for optimizing its use as a crop improvement tool or devising new ways to protect crops vulnerable to crown galls.
Research project co-led by University of Tennessee, Knoxville among finalists in NSF Regional Innovation Engines Program
The BRIDGES proposal aims to develop a circular bioeconomy in the southeastern US by converting perennial agricultural grass crops into consumer goods. This initiative will create new markets for farmers and produce needed products while developing the region's workforce, ultimately providing access to high-paying jobs.
Cheaper, sustainable plant biomanufacturing on Earth and in space
Researchers at UC Davis develop new technologies for plant-based biomanufacturing, addressing resource constraints and sustainability. The project aims to create a powerful technology for producing biomolecules and materials, focusing on low-cost infrastructure, novel bioproduction platforms and efficient processing.
Can microbes be the good guys? New study reveals Hollywood’s blind spot
A new review in Microbial Biotechnology highlights microbes as allies in various industries, from food fermentation to biofuels. Films such as French Kiss and The Martian showcase microbes as positive forces, challenging the traditional villain stereotype.
Danforth Center awards proof-of-concept funding to four scientific teams advancing agricultural innovation
The Donald Danforth Plant Science Center has awarded proof-of-concept funding to four scientific teams developing breakthrough technologies for food security and environmental sustainability. These projects aim to improve crop resistance, develop customized weed control strategies, exploit plasmodesmata to control plant disease, and en...
Scientists get back to basics with minimal plant genomes
Researchers at Salk Institute used CRISPR-Cas9 to delete large duplicated regions in Arabidopsis thaliana genomes, revealing minimal off-target effects. The study shows that it's possible to obtain viable plants with streamlined, minimal plant genomes, challenging assumptions about essential DNA blocks.
"Crop–robot co-design" signals crop-breeding breakthrough
Scientists have developed a system that uses gene editing to create flowers that can be easily pollinated by AI-controlled robots, addressing a long-standing pollination hurdle. This breakthrough reduces manual labor costs in crops like tomatoes and soybeans, and has the potential to increase crop yields and improve sustainability.
Through the shot glass, and what can be found in liverworts
A recent study published in New Phytologist reveals a crucial gene necessary for plant reproductive structures. The gene, named SHOT GLASS, is found to regulate the development of air chambers and sexual organs in liverworts, a model organism for studying plant reproduction.
New project to develop methods to fast-track crop improvement
Researchers at Cranfield University are developing a faster and more efficient method for genetically engineering plants, bypassing tissue culture. The 'Fast-Track Crop Improvement' project aims to transform seeds and pollen directly, increasing the speed of crop improvement and opening up new possibilities for breeding and production.
Researchers develop process to turn food waste into biodegradable plastic
A team at Binghamton University has developed a process to convert food waste into biodegradable plastic, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and offering a sustainable alternative. The process utilizes bacteria to synthesize polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) plastic, which can be harvested and shaped into various products.
Novel biosensor allows real-time monitoring of sucrose uptake in plants
A novel, needle-type biosensor allows for real-time monitoring of sucrose uptake in plants, revealing light-dependent stomatal uptake and daily rhythms. The sensor's high sensitivity and stability enable the detection of subtle physiological events, shedding new light on plant biology.
Agricultural biotechnology in China: Product development, commercialization, and perspectives
This review systematically presents China's agricultural biotechnology development, highlighting progress in functional gene discovery and transgenic technologies. The Chinese government has established a regulatory system to ensure safe application of biotech products, with steady annual growth in approved applications, focusing on GM...
AI revives classic microscopy for on-farm soil health testing
Researchers developed an AI-powered microscope system to measure soil fungi presence and quantity, providing insights into soil health and fertility. The low-cost optical microscopy with machine learning technology can be used by farmers and land managers worldwide.
How ubiquitous small particles turn harmful inside plants
A new study reveals how nanoparticles can interfere with photosynthesis in plants, reducing their ability to convert sunlight into food. The research team found that nanoparticles undergo changes in pH and pick up lipid coatings from plant membranes, boosting their binding to RuBisCO and impairing its function.
A recipe for success: beefing up the taste of cultured meat with amino acids
Researchers at the Institute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo, found that increasing levels of free amino acids in the culture medium can increase intracellular free amino acids and influence flavor compounds in cultured meat. Glutamic acid was the most prominent amino acid, while alanine was higher in conventional beef.
Center for Bioenergy Innovation taps Cregger, Eckert as chief science officers
Melissa Cregger and Carrie Eckert lead CBI's research on non-food feedstock crops and cost-effective biomass conversion methods. The appointments aim to boost domestic supply chains and energy security while providing job growth in rural areas.
Syntato awarded ARIA funding to advance chromosome engineering in crops
The ARIA-funded project Syntato aims to reduce the cost and iteration time of chromosome engineering by making chromosomes modular and reusable. The collaboration will enable the creation of a new potato variety in three years using synthetic chromosome technology.
Scientists build first genetic "toggle switch" for plants, paving the way for smarter farming
Researchers at Colorado State University have created a programmable plant circuit that can turn genes on and off, allowing farmers to time harvests and adapt to drought. The breakthrough could lead to automated genetic circuit design through machine learning, revolutionizing agriculture.
A new technology for extending the shelf life of produce
Researchers from MIT and SMART extended fresh-cut crops' shelf life by four days at room temperature and 10 days when refrigerated using melatonin-filled microneedles. This technology could reduce global food waste, providing an alternative to refrigeration for regions with limited infrastructure.
Enabling Indonesia’s small farmers to embrace innovation
A new report reveals that Indonesia's small farmers can increase productivity and market access through technology-driven innovations. The report outlines ten best practices for agritech startups and wider ecosystems to enable and shape the country's rural startup ecosystem.
Researchers demonstrate new technique for boosting plant growth with bacteria
Researchers demonstrate a new technique for encapsulating beneficial bacteria that can be stored and applied to plants to improve growth and protect against pests. The technique enables customized probiotics for plants, allowing farmers to use these bacteria in conjunction with agrochemicals.
50 years after the Asilomar conference, Trends in Biotechnology explores regulations for genetic modification technology
The Asilomar conference set the groundwork for evidence-based safety guidelines, but regulations hinder scientific innovation. A new focus issue in Trends in Biotechnology explores how genetic modification is regulated.
Feed additives can reduce campylobacter in free-range broilers
Researchers at the Technical University of Denmark have found that adding biochar to chicken feed can significantly reduce campylobacter levels in free-range chickens. The study, published in Poultry Science, demonstrates an 80% reduction in campylobacter and suggests a potential tool for improving public health.
New technology tracks dairy cows for improved health and productivity
Researchers at Tokyo University of Science develop a location-based method to track dairy cows in entire barns using multi-camera systems, improving accuracy and detecting health issues. The system achieves around 90% accuracy in tracking cows and 80% Identification F1 score for individual cow identification.
From root to shoot: How silicon powers plant resilience
Researchers at Okayama University have identified the Shoot-Silicon-Signal protein as a crucial regulator of silicon uptake and accumulation in rice and other grasses. The study highlights the importance of silicon in enhancing plant resilience and productivity, particularly under climate change conditions.
Biochar reduces the risks of DDT-contaminated soil
Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology found that biochar significantly reduces DDT uptake by earthworms in contaminated soil, halving the toxin's presence. This method could enable farming on land deemed unusable due to environmental risks.
Researchers explore breakthrough approach to combat devastating citrus greening disease
Scientists at the University of Florida have developed a genetically edited citrus tree that produces a protein killing baby Asian citrus psyllids, which transmit the greening disease. The approach has shown promise in controlling the spread of HLB, but adult psyllids remain a challenge.
Winners of Applied Microbiology International Horizon Awards 2024 announced
The winners of the Applied Microbiology International Horizon Awards 2024 have been named, including the One Health Microbiome Center at Penn State and researchers Dr. François Thomas and Dr. Helen Onyeaka.
Dreams come true for researchers as they win major European funding to investigate biological clocks in bacteria
The John Innes Centre, LMU Munich, and Leiden University have secured €8.3m in funding to study circadian rhythms in non-photosynthetic bacteria, which could have significant implications for human health and the environment. The project aims to understand the properties and ecology of biological clocks across a new kingdom of life.
Center for Genomic Diagnostics receives first USDA grant
The Center for Genomic Diagnostics at the University of Illinois will develop sensitive and rapid biosensors to detect African swine fever virus. The grant aims to improve on-farm detection and surveillance, providing timely control measures.
NSF to invest nearly $10 million in ASAP Global Center
The ASAP Global Center at the University of Illinois will integrate international teams and scientific disciplines to tackle global challenges like improving feedstock-crop performance and converting plant matter into fuel. The center aims to generate crucial knowledge, empower communities, and strengthen global cooperation.
Methane emissions from dairy farms higher than thought - but conversion could reduce emissions
New research reveals methane emissions from slurry stores on dairy farms may be up to five times greater than official statistics suggest. Capturing and converting methane into biogas could reduce emissions and save farmers over £400 million a year in fuel costs.
NSF to invest $5 million to the Reliable and Scalable Biofoundries for Biomanufacturing and Global Bioeconomy
The NSF has invested $5 million in the Reliable and Scalable Biofoundries for Biomanufacturing and Global Bioeconomy to advance bioeconomy research and solve global challenges. The project aims to establish standards and metrics for biofoundry applications, promote industry partnerships, and develop workforce development programs.
Making soybeans smarter
Researchers are developing soybeans that can handle extreme weather conditions, allowing farmers to maintain yields under pressure. By studying plant adaptation strategies, scientists aim to create more resilient soybean varieties.