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How sweet osmanthus makes its signature aroma

Researchers discovered that jasmonic acid promotes linalool biosynthesis by lifting a molecular brake on the OfMYB21 protein, allowing its activation. The study provides a clearer roadmap for improving floral fragrance and boosting the production of valuable aroma compounds in ornamental and industrial plants.

SourceNanjing Agricultural University The Academy of Science·JournalHorticulture Research·DateApr 29, 2026

Understanding jasmonic acid: A switch that activates autophagy in Arabidopsis petals

A team of researchers from Nara Institute of Science and Technology discovered a phytohormone-mediated switch controlling autophagy, leading to terminal cell differentiation for petal abscission. They found that jasmonic acid promotes petal abscission by activating autophagy at the base of petals.

SourceNara Institute of Science and Technology·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 7, 2024

Strigolactones increase tolerance to weevils in tobacco plants

Research at the Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology found that strigolactones regulate plant defense against endophytic Trichobaris mucorea larvae by influencing jasmonate and auxin signaling pathways. This enables tobacco plants to produce defensive substances, increasing their tolerance to the weevil's attack.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology·JournalPLOS Biology·DateAug 24, 2020

Insect activity and plant climate adaptability

Plant defenses against herbivory can impede resilience to elevated temperatures. The interplay between biotic and abiotic stresses suggests that jasmonate responses are enhanced by heat-shock protein HSP90.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 20, 2020
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Plants under attack can turn hungry caterpillars into cannibals

According to a study published in Nature Ecology & Evolution, plants produce defensive chemicals like methyl jasmonate that deter herbivores. When these chemicals are present, caterpillars become more likely to turn to cannibalism, benefiting the plant by reducing herbivore populations.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateJul 10, 2017

Protecting plants from stealthy diseases

Researchers have engineered a new receptor that can counter stealthy diseases by boosting plant defense systems. The modified Arabidopsis plants show resistance to both insects and pathogens.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 2, 2015

Atomic-level defense secrets revealed

Researchers have unraveled the molecular secrets of plant defense mechanisms at the atomic level, focusing on jasmonate and its interaction with three key proteins. The study aims to develop crops better equipped to fend off future threats.

SourceVan Andel Research Institute·JournalNature·DateAug 10, 2015
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Biologists unlocking the secrets of plant defenses, 1 piece at a time

Biologists have discovered how a transcriptional repressor makes its way into the nucleus of plant cells to control jasmonate signaling, which is crucial for maintaining balance between growth and defense. This finding could lead to more efficient crop yields with less harm to the environment.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 5, 2012

A bit touchy: Plants' insect defenses activated by touch

A new study at Rice University reveals that plant defenses are enhanced when plants are touched, triggering an insect defense response. This response is mediated by the plant hormone jasmonate, which plays a critical role in initiating plant defenses against insect-eating insects and some fungal infections.

SourceRice University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateApr 9, 2012

Anti-cancer flower power

A decade of research into Jasmonate, a synthetic compound derived from the jasmine flower, has led to the development of an anti-cancer drug. Early first-in-man studies have proven successful, with the compound showing responsiveness to both blood cancers and solid tumors.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalOncogene·DateAug 25, 2008
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Biochemists manipulate fruit flavor enzymes

Researchers at the University of Texas Health Science Center have successfully manipulated flavor enzymes in plants, opening up possibilities for fine-tuning fruit flavors. The breakthrough could also lead to novel pest control methods using green leaf volatiles and jasmonates.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalNature·DateAug 20, 2008