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Longer-lasting flowers: Fresh ideas from ARS researchers

Researchers have found that spraying low concentrations of a compound known as thidiazuron (TDZ) significantly extends the life of potted plants' leaves and flowers. In tests with greenhouse-grown cyclamen plants, TDZ-treated plants had a longer life than unsprayed plants.

Biologists discover an on/off button on plants' alarm system

Researchers find NINJA protein connects JAZ proteins with TPL, blocking MYC2 activation and triggering defense mechanism. The discovery sheds light on the link between growth and stress in plants, revealing a complex molecular mechanism for regulating gene expression.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Bringing dehydrated plants 'back to life'

Researchers found that dehydrin proteins play a key role in helping plants like the resurrection fern survive up to 95% water loss, allowing water to act as a lubricant between cell walls. This discovery could lead to developing drought-resistant crops by localizing and transferring the dehydrin gene.

Genes under control

Max Planck scientists have successfully inserted a gene switch into the genetic material of chloroplasts in plant cells, allowing for controlled protein production. This breakthrough enables researchers to study the functions of chloroplasts and explore potential applications in biotechnology, such as producing antibiotics.

Researchers look at reducing yield loss for crops under stress

Researchers are studying plant stress response mechanisms to improve crop productivity and survival under drought and extreme weather conditions. By understanding how plants respond to different types of stress, scientists hope to develop new breeding approaches that enhance crop resilience without sacrificing yields.

Researchers harness the power of plants to fight hemophilia

A new plant-based system has been developed to help hemophilia patients build tolerance to their treatment, reducing the risk of allergic reactions. The system, made from genetically modified plants, can be ingested and releases a tolerated protein into the small intestine, where it can be acted on by the immune system.

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Chance discovery leads to plant breeding breakthrough

Plant biologists at UC Davis have discovered a reliable method for producing plants that carry genetic material from only one parent, which could dramatically speed up the breeding of crop plants. The technique uses genome elimination to eliminate half the chromosomes, resulting in haploid plants that are immediately homozygous.

Cracking the plant-cell membrane code

Researchers have discovered 65,000 unique relationships between proteins and plant-cell membranes in Arabidopsis, a relative of the mustard plant. This breakthrough using high-throughput screening technology will aid in understanding protein interactions to develop better crops and medicines.

Protein study shows evolutionary link between plants, humans

A Purdue University study found that inserting a human protein important in cancer development into plants revived dying plants, showing an evolutionary link between the two species. The discovery could advance understanding of this class of proteins and offer new options for studying their function in humans.

Green plant transport mystery solved

A new study from UC Davis reveals that Hsp70 proteins indeed chaperone chloroplast proteins across membranes, challenging prevailing wisdom. The research demonstrates the conservation of transport machineries across cellular bodies through evolution.

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Virus may chauffeur useful 'packages' into plants

Scientists have discovered that plant viruses can be harnessed to carry genetic information into plant cells, which could lead to the development of crops with desirable traits. By stabilizing viral vector genes, researchers hope to improve crop yields and resistance.

'Safety valve' protects photosynthesis from too much light

Researchers have discovered a specific protein in algae that acts as a safety valve to dissipate excess absorbed light energy. This finding could lead to the development of more robust, commercially viable strains for biofuel production and help plants survive extreme environmental conditions.

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Cucumber genome published

The cucumber genome has been sequenced, offering a platform for studying the cucurbit family and plant biology. The genome will aid in understanding disease and pest-resistance, flavor traits, and sex expression, with potential applications in agriculture.

Pumpkin skin may scare away germs

A new study reveals that pumpkin skin contains a powerful antifungal protein that can inhibit the growth of disease-causing microbes, including Candida albicans. The protein could be developed into a natural medicine to fight yeast infections in humans.

Common weed could provide clues on aging and cancer

Researchers from Texas A&M University and the University of Cincinnati have discovered a new set of essential telomere proteins in Arabidopsis, a plant found worldwide. The team identified human counterparts to these proteins, which could help understand human cancers and cellular aging.

Cell death occurs in the same way in plants, animals and humans

An international research team has discovered a common genetic program for programmed cell death in plants and animals, which is evolutionarily related and functions similarly. This finding highlights the importance of comparative studies across different species to understand fundamental cellular mechanisms.

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

The nutritional value of Andalusian lupines is revealed

Researchers from the Fat Institute and University of Seville found that six wild lupin species have a protein content similar to other legumes, ranging from 23.8% to 33.6%. The study also showed high protein digestibility and a balanced amino acid composition, making them potential sources of quality proteins.

The blossoms of maturity

Researchers at Max Planck Institute find that a decline in microRNA156 concentration triggers flowering in Arabidopsis, allowing plants to bloom even in unfavorable environments. This endogenous mechanism ensures plant survival and prevents delayed flowering.

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Stunting plants' skyward reach could lead to improved yields

Michigan State University scientist Beronda Montgomery is studying the process of stem growth in plants, which diverts energy from seed, flower, and leaf production. Her research aims to understand how phytochromes control plant growth and develop new approaches to improve crop yields.

New crops needed for new climate

Research finds increased toxic compounds and decreased protein content in plants grown under high CO2 and drought conditions. Cassava yields may also be affected, highlighting the need for new crop cultivars to address future climate change.

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Protein that triggers plant cell division revealed by researchers

Scientists at Stanford University have discovered a plant protein called BASL that plays a key role in asymmetric cell division, a process vital for creating different types of cells in plants. The discovery sheds light on the unique mechanisms used by plants to control cell growth and development.

Plant Min protein sits tight and rescues E. coli

A plant MinD protein has been found to rescue the oscillating cell division of E. coli by localizing to its polar regions without oscillation. This finding suggests that the conserved Min proteins between bacteria and plants have different functions.

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

New breakthrough in global warming plant production

Researchers at the University of Leicester have identified a single gene responsible for controlling plant growth responses to high temperatures, which could significantly impact crop production as global warming increases. The study found that mutant plants deficient in the regulatory protein PIF4 display reduced growth and biomass.

Missing piece of plant clock found

Biologists have identified a critical protein that links the morning and evening components of plant daily clocks, solving a longstanding puzzle about biochemical mechanisms controlling plant clocks. The discovery provides a new way to increase agricultural crop growth and yield.

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Researchers identify a process that regulates seed germination

Researchers at Purdue University have identified a process called sumoylation that regulates gene activity involved in seed germination and seedling development. The study found that sumoylation is essential for controlling significant plant characteristics, including freeze tolerance and phosphate absorption.

Scientists study full protein content of 'baker's yeast'

Researchers at the University of Liverpool aim to quantify cellular proteins in baker's yeast, a model organism for studying metabolism, neurodegenerative diseases, and aging. The study may lead to a deeper understanding of how cells operate and how they fail to perform their normal functions in the human body.

Combating infection of crops by nematodes is soon to improve

Scientists have identified how nematodes trick plants into producing food for them by manipulating auxin transport. This discovery opens doors to developing environmentally friendly methods to counteract this phenomenon and protect crops from devastating nematode attacks.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Soybean database will help breeders engineer better-performing plants

University of Missouri researchers are creating a comprehensive database of soybean proteins and metabolites to study changes under drought and stressed conditions. The database will help breeders engineer better-performing soybean plants using computerized models that predict physiological and biological changes.

Scientists unveil mechanism for 'up and down' in plants

Researchers found that PIN proteins are transported throughout the cell membrane and then endocytosed before being recycled and transported to the bottom of the cell. This mechanism allows plants to quickly adapt to changes in gravity, enabling new 'undersides' for roots and shoots.

Female plant 'communicates' rejection or acceptance of male

A new study by University of Missouri researchers has identified three specific pollen proteins that may contribute to the signaling processes in plants. These proteins, which bind to pistil proteins, suggest a molecular basis for plant mate recognition and acceptance or rejection of individual pollen grains.

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Scientists use light to control proteins

Researchers at Penn State and the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center have discovered a way to control certain proteins using light. The team's hybrid protein was engineered to respond to light, increasing or decreasing enzyme activity depending on the illumination, offering new possibilities for treating diseases.

Brush your teeth to reduce the risk of heart disease

Researchers have discovered a link between gum disease and heart disease, suggesting that controlling gum disease could reduce the risk of heart attacks. The study found that heat shock proteins produced by bacteria can initiate atherosclerosis, a condition that causes "furring" of the arteries.

NYU, American Museum of Natural History receive $1.6 million NSF grant

Researchers at NYU and AMNH will model two plant species, Arabidopsis thaliana and Oryza sativa, using bioinformatics to gain insights into protein structure and function. The project aims to annotate the functions of unknown proteins in plant genomes, shedding light on their roles in cellular processes.

Key discovered to cold tolerance in corn

Researchers have discovered a key to cold tolerance in corn, allowing it to thrive in colder regions. By increasing PPDK enzyme production during cold weather, corn yields can be extended and growth seasons lengthened.

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Key to virulence protein entry into host cells discovered

Researchers from Virginia Tech have identified a region of virulence proteins that enables them to enter the cells of their hosts, suppressing the immune system and allowing infection to progress. The discovery may lead to new approaches for blocking infections by both oomycete and malaria parasites.

Can tomatoes carry the cure for Alzheimer's?

Researchers have developed a plant-derived vaccine against Alzheimer's disease using transgenic tomatoes expressing human beta-amyloid protein. The study showed a strong immune response in mice, but the potency of the vaccine needs to be increased.

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Fortified cassava could provide a day's nutrition in a single meal

Scientists have engineered fortified cassava to provide a complete day's worth of nutrition in a single meal, overcoming its carbohydrates-only composition and cyanide toxicity. The BioCassava Plus project aims to translate this innovation into field-tested products for malnourished populations in Africa.

SEX4, starch and phosphorylation

Researchers have identified a new molecular mechanism of starch breakdown in plants, involving the action of enzymes that place and remove phosphate groups on starch molecules. This process is finely tuned to diurnal changes in photosynthesis and circadian rhythms.

Team finds key mechanism of DDT resistance in malarial mosquitoes

Researchers at the University of Illinois have identified a key detoxifying protein in Anopheles mosquitoes that metabolizes DDT, a synthetic insecticide used to control malaria-spreading mosquitoes. The protein CYP6Z1 belongs to a class of cytochrome P450 monooxygenases that play key roles in insect defenses against plant toxins.

Researchers witness assembly of molecules critical to protein function

A Virginia Tech research group has isolated proteins responsible for iron-sulfur cluster assembly and witnessed their interactions within a cell. This breakthrough provides insight into the sequential steps of the process, helping to explain how molecules are synthesized and distributed in cells.

Arsenic and new rice

Researchers have discovered a family of transporters called NIPs that can move arsenite across plant cell membranes, reducing toxic arsenic content. The findings suggest that some NIPs can even clear cells of toxic arsenite, potentially enabling plant detoxification.

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Researchers identify proteins making up mechanosensitive ion channels

Scientists have identified two proteins, MSL9 and MSL10, responsible for mechanosensitive ion channel activities in plant roots. These proteins govern the flow of ions into and out of the cell in response to mechanical forces like gravity or pressure. The discovery sheds light on how plants respond to physical forces.

Plant biologists discover unexpected proteins affecting small RNAs

Researchers have found that plants regulate their own genes using small RNAs, similar to how they silence foreign viral RNA. This discovery has implications for fields such as plant pathology, cancer research, and potentially even combating climate change by understanding how plants respond to pathogens.