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$14.8 million grant supports Illinois-Singapore partnership on precision fermentation for food

Researchers from University of Illinois and National Research Foundation are developing precision fermentation technology to convert sugars and inedible crop parts into nutritious food molecules. The project aims to improve food supply chain resilience, reduce environmental impacts, and address global micronutrient deficiencies.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 17, 2024

Scientists engineer yellow-seeded camelina with high oil output

A new, high-yielding variety of camelina has been engineered with a gene that increases oil production by 21.4%. The modified seeds have lower levels of flavonoid compounds and mucilage, but higher levels of genes involved in oil synthesis.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalPlant Biotechnology Journal·DateJun 11, 2024
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Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Key nutrients help plants beat the heat

Researchers at Salk Institute found that higher temperatures drain plants of important dietary nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus, affecting their long-term sustainability. The study's findings will inform the engineering of climate-resilient crops to address global warming's impact on food production.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 3, 2024

Understanding plant breathing:

In this study, researchers identified PIF transcriptional regulators and KAT1 gene as essential players in regulating stomata aperture during day/night cycles. This understanding can be used to optimize plant yield and adaptation to different stressors, such as drought conditions.

SourceCenter for Research in Agricultural Genomics (CRAG)·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 29, 2024

Transgenic expression of rubisco factors increases photosynthesis and chilling tolerance in maize

Scientists at Boyce Thompson Institute have developed a method to enhance Rubisco production in maize, increasing carbon assimilation and boosting plant height. The transgenic plants also showed improved resilience to chilling stress, maintaining higher photosynthetic rates during cold exposure.

SourceBoyce Thompson Institute·JournalJournal of Experimental Botany·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 28, 2024

Scientists discover mechanism of sugar signaling in plants

Researchers have discovered the detailed mechanism of sugar signaling in plants, which involves a protein called KIN10 that acts as a 'sensor kinase' controlling biochemical pathways. The study reveals how sugar levels affect plant growth and oil production, providing insights into potential engineering of proteins to increase oil prod...

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 17, 2024
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.

Modern plant enzyme partners with surprisingly ancient protein

Researchers have identified an ancient protein that partners with a modern plant enzyme to synthesize lignin, a key component of plant cell walls. This discovery provides insights into the evolution of plant protective mechanisms and their potential industrial applications.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateMay 17, 2024

Some plant-based steaks and cold cuts are lacking in protein

A study published in ACS' Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that plant-based steaks and cold cuts have varying levels of protein quality and digestibility. The nutritional value depends on the plants used to create them, with some showing comparable profiles to their meat counterparts.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateApr 19, 2024

NTU Singapore researchers develop a method to extract useful proteins from beer-brewing leftovers

Researchers from NTU Singapore have created a method to extract over 80% of the available protein in grain leftovers from brewing beer, commonly known as brewers' spent grain. The extracted proteins could be used commercially to enrich human diets and cosmetic products, providing an eco-friendly alternative to conventional ingredients.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalInnovative Food Science & Emerging Technologies·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateApr 10, 2024

Cross-species insights: study finds calcium link in plant and animal immunity

A new study has identified a crucial role for plant MLKL proteins in regulating cytoplasmic calcium ion concentration, which is responsible for innate immune responses. The research found that activated plant MLKLs maintain higher calcium levels, activating downstream immune machinery and conferring disease resistance.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalCell Host & Microbe·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 20, 2024

Insulin affects the recycling of cellular power plants

In nerve cells, insulin facilitates the elimination of defective mitochondria when energy is available. However, during energy scarcity or disrupted insulin signaling, mitochondrial recycling is reduced, allowing potentially damaged power plants to continue operating. This process affects ageing processes and neurological diseases.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Metabolism·DateMar 19, 2024
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Simple trick could improve accuracy of plant genetics research

Researchers have developed a technique to account for global changes in transcription, revealing new insights into how plants respond to environmental stimuli. By using artificial spike-ins, they found that temperature changes at different times of day affect gene expression more significantly than previously thought.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalThe Plant Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 13, 2024

When plants flower: Scientists ID genes, mechanism in sorghum

Researchers identified genes controlling sorghum flowering and found that overexpressing one gene can delay flowering, increasing plant growth and biomass. The study provides new insights into optimizing sorghum for bioenergy goals.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalNew Phytologist·DateMar 7, 2024
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GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Photosynthetic secrets come to light

Researchers at John Innes Centre used cryo-EM to visualize the structural architecture of chloroplast RNA polymerase and build a detailed atomic model. The study reveals new insights into transcription, a fundamental step in making photosynthetic proteins, and how these proteins interact with DNA and mRNA.

SourceJohn Innes Centre·JournalCell·DateMar 4, 2024

Scientists develop novel RNA- or DNA-based substances to protect plants from viruses

Researchers at Martin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg developed novel RNA- or DNA-based substances that reliably fight off viral infections in plants. The new approach uses antisense oligonucleotides to target specific viral RNA molecules, achieving an impressive up to 90% success rate against a common virus.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalInternational Journal of Molecular Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 29, 2024

IPK researchers identify a key player in chromatin regulation in Arabidopsis thaliana

A team of researchers from IPK has identified several proteins associated with the nuclear matrix in Arabidopsis thaliana, including novel players FRS7 and FRS12. The study found that AHL22 collaborates with FRS7 and FRS12 to regulate hypocotyl elongation, a critical process for plant growth and survival.

SourceLeibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 23, 2024
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Proteins guide electrons to the right place

Researchers at the University of Gothenburg discovered how proteins deform to create efficient transport routes for electrons, powered by solar energy. This finding could lead to more efficient solar cells and batteries.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalNature Chemistry·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 15, 2024

AI tool predicts function of unknown proteins

A new AI tool, DeepGO-SE, successfully predicts the molecular functions of unknown proteins with high accuracy. This breakthrough enables researchers to analyze uncharacterized proteins, facilitating tasks such as drug discovery, metabolic pathway analysis, and disease associations.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Machine Intelligence·DateFeb 14, 2024

Protecting the protector boosts plant oil content

Scientists at Brookhaven Lab demonstrate new genetic strategy to boost plant oil content by protecting the oil-protector protein, resulting in 54% more oil accumulation in leaves and 13% more in seeds. This approach can increase biomass energy content and provide sustainable fuels.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalNew Phytologist·DateFeb 8, 2024

Replacing animal-based foods with alternative proteins would unlock land for carbon removal

Researchers suggest replacing 50% of animal products with alternative proteins by 2050 to unlock vast energy and negative emission potentials via BECCS. This transition could free up large agricultural areas, generating enough renewable energy equivalent to today's coal-generated power while removing substantial CO2 from the atmosphere.

SourceCell Press·JournalOne Earth·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 7, 2024
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.

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

USC researchers uncover biological circuit that protects plants from extreme conditions

Plants use their circadian clocks to regulate responses to changes in water and salinity levels, offering a new avenue for creating drought-resistant crops. The discovery of the ABF3 feedback loop reveals a delicate balance between boosting stress tolerance and maximizing growth and yield.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 5, 2024

Researchers study role of post-transcriptional splicing in plant response to light

A study published in PNAS reveals that light controls the post-transcriptional splicing of genes regulating photosynthesis in mesophyll cells. This process is co-regulated by AtPRMT5 and COP1, allowing plants to adapt to changing light conditions.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 1, 2024
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.

A non-allergenic wheat protein for growing better cultivated meat

Researchers have successfully grown striated muscle layers and flat fat layers using glutenin, a non-allergenic wheat protein. The edible film-based scaffolds can be combined to produce meat-like textures, promising a more realistic cultivated meat product.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Biomaterials Science & Engineering·DateJan 29, 2024

Orchestrating plant organ symmetry in style

A recent study published in Nature Plants reveals that O-glycosylation of the transcription factor SPATULA promotes Arabidopsis style development. The experimental study sheds new light on the mechanisms underlying plant organ symmetry.

SourceJohn Innes Centre·JournalNature Plants·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 26, 2024

The underground network: Decoding the dynamics of plant-fungal symbiosis

Groundbreaking research reveals key insights into plant-AM fungi interactions, including the roles of two proteins, CKL1 and CKL2, which control lipid flow essential for fungal survival. This symbiosis could lead to advances in agricultural sustainability and crop resilience.

SourceBoyce Thompson Institute·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 25, 2024

Keys to aging hidden in the leaves

Researchers at UC Riverside have identified a crucial protein that controls plant responses to stress and aging. The discovery reveals the importance of Golgi bodies in maintaining cellular health and highlights their potential role in human aging.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNature Plants·DateJan 17, 2024

Diets rich in plant protein may help women stay healthy as they age

A study found that women consuming higher amounts of plant-based protein developed fewer chronic diseases and were generally healthier later in life. Plant protein was strongly linked to sound mental health, lower LDL cholesterol, and improved insulin sensitivity.

SourceTufts University·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateJan 17, 2024
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Low-carbohydrate diet macronutrient quality and weight change

A study of 123,000 individuals found that low-carbohydrate diets emphasizing whole grains and plant-based foods are associated with slower weight gain in the long term. Low-carb diets relying on animal-sourced proteins and refined carbohydrates result in faster weight gain.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateDec 27, 2023
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Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Low-carbohydrate diets emphasizing healthy, plant-based sources associated with slower long-term weight gain

A new study led by Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health found that low-carbohydrate diets rich in plant-based proteins and fats, along with healthy carbohydrates, are linked to slower long-term weight gain. Diets high in animal proteins and unhealthy carbohydrates, on the other hand, are associated with greater weight gain.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeObservational study·DateDec 27, 2023

Discovery: Plants use “trojan horse” to fight mold invasions

Plant scientists have discovered a sophisticated RNA defense system that plants use to attack gray mold cells, sending mRNA molecules that disrupt fungal cellular processes. This innovative approach could lead to the development of eco-friendly fungicides with minimal environmental impact and no harm to humans or animals.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateDec 20, 2023

From infamy to ingenuity

Researchers have uncovered the intricate molecular mechanism used by parasitic phytoplasma bacteria to manipulate plants. The discovery sheds light on a peculiar phenomenon in nature, where plants exhibit 'zombie-like' effects due to bacterial infection.

SourceJohn Innes Centre·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 5, 2023
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

ROP signaling: Origin at dawn of multicellular plant life

Researchers found that ROP proteins evolved during the transition from unicellular to multicellular plant life. ROP proteins are highly conserved between land plants and streptophyte algae, excluding certain species. The study suggests that ROP signaling may have contributed to the evolution of multicellularity in plants.

SourceGregor Mendel Institute of Molecular Plant Biology·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 30, 2023

Plant proteins: influence by imitation

Researchers discovered plant proteins (MDL) that resemble human MIF protein in both amino acid sequence and spatial structure. These MDL proteins can bind to MIF receptors, activating immune-relevant signaling pathways and potentially modulating the human immune system.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalScience·DateNov 23, 2023
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.

Proof of concept of new material for long lasting relief from dry mouth conditions

A novel aqueous lubricant technology has been developed at the University of Leeds, providing a longer-lasting solution for people with dry mouth conditions. The substance, composed of microgel and hydrogel, binds strongly to the surface of the mouth, reducing desorption and offering up to five times more effective relief.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalScientific Reports·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 20, 2023

Discovering the secrets of plant defense

A team of MSU scientists has identified a key protein in transporting antimicrobial proteins out of plant cells, which could lead to breakthroughs in crop productivity and yield. By understanding how plants defend themselves against pathogens, researchers can develop new strategies to improve crop resilience.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 19, 2023

A tale of two proteins: Fundamental research could make growing better crops like clockwork

A recent study published in Plant Physiology reveals the inner workings of photosynthesis and plant productivity by investigating the interaction between RBL10 and ACP4 proteins. The researchers identified that these proteins act independently in parallel ways to affect lipid biosynthesis, paving the way for engineering crop plants wit...

SourceMichigan State University·JournalPLANT PHYSIOLOGY·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 14, 2023

Identifying a silicon transporter to improve the yield of rice

Scientists at Okayama University have identified a membrane transporter, SIET4, in rice leaves that facilitates the localization of silicon. This discovery reveals intricate processes involved in Si deposition, enabling plants to accumulate high levels of silicon and survive environmental stresses.

SourceOkayama University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 8, 2023
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.

Plants transformed into detectors of dangerous chemicals

Researchers at UC Riverside successfully engineered a plant to turn beet red in the presence of a banned pesticide, enabling an environmental sensor without damaging its native metabolism. This breakthrough opens up possibilities for detecting other toxic substances like drugs and birth control pills in water supply.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateOct 23, 2023

Red meat consumption associated with increased type 2 diabetes risk

A new study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that consuming more red meat is associated with a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Replacing red meat with plant-based protein sources like nuts and legumes may reduce this risk.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·TypeObservational study·DateOct 19, 2023

Yeast speeds discovery of medicinal compounds in plants

A new yeast-based screening method has been developed to unravel how plants synthesize medicinal compounds, identifying key enzymes in a kratom tree. The method complements traditional approaches by capturing protein-protein interactions between plant enzymes.

SourceCornell University·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateOct 18, 2023
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.

Ancient technology turns plant-based cheese into 'something we want to eat'

University of Copenhagen scientists have successfully produced plant-based cheeses with firm texture and improved aroma profile using natural fermentation processes. The study explores the potential of fermentation to develop flavor and texture in non-dairy cheese, paving the way for a more sustainable dairy-free alternative.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalFuture Foods·DateOct 4, 2023

Plant chloroplasts promise potential therapy for Huntington’s disease

Researchers discovered a synthetic plant biology approach to prevent protein aggregation in human cells and nematodes, using the plant enzyme stromal processing peptidase (SPP) derived from chloroplasts. This finding opens the door to testing SPP as a potential therapy for Huntington's disease.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalNature Aging·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 2, 2023

Unzipping mRNA rallies plant cells to fight infection

A new molecular mechanism has been identified that helps plants adjust protein levels to fight infection. By unzipping specific RNA structures, plant cells can produce defense proteins. This discovery also has implications for human cells, suggesting a similar mechanism may control protein production in response to pathogens.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 20, 2023

Magnesium deficiency is detrimental to plants

The study reveals that magnesium transport proteins are essential for plant metabolism and chloroplast functioning, impacting growth and yield. The analysis of three newly identified magnesium release and transporter proteins shows their importance in photosynthesis.

SourceEötvös Loránd University·JournalFrontiers in Plant Science·DateAug 29, 2023
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.

Novel study shows greater metabolic response to animal versus plant proteins in young and older adults

A novel study found that consuming two oz-eq portions of animal-based versus plant-based protein foods results in different EAA bioavailability. The study, conducted by scientists at Purdue University, included young and older adults, with no differences in EAA bioavailability between age groups.

SourceNational Pork Board·JournalNutrients·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateAug 15, 2023

Making plant-based meat alternatives more palatable

Researchers at the University of Leeds have created plant protein microgels that transform dry plant proteins into hydrated ones, mimicking the sensation of fat. The breakthrough could lead to the development of healthier, palatable, and sustainable plant-based foods.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 14, 2023

3D-printed vegan seafood could someday be what’s for dinner (video)

Researchers have developed a new approach for creating vegan seafood mimics that taste good while maintaining the healthful profile of real fish. They used 3D printing technology to create calamari rings from microalgae protein and mung bean protein, which were found to have an acceptable taste and promising texture properties.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateAug 13, 2023

Plant-based protein intake may reduce kidney disease risk

A recent study found that higher plant protein intake is associated with lower risk of chronic kidney disease. The UK Biobank study data revealed that participants consuming more plant-based protein had a reduced risk of developing CKD.

SourceNational Kidney Foundation·JournalAmerican Journal of Kidney Diseases·DateJul 31, 2023

Cellular process that fuels plant growth yields surprising insights

A new study by Rice University bioscientists reveals how plant cells collaborate to fuel growth, shedding light on corresponding mechanisms in human cells. The findings focus on the role of enzyme MIEL1 and its human counterpart PIRH2 in breaking down protein coatings on lipid droplets.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 12, 2023
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Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.