Articles tagged with Plant Genomes
A new collection of corn genomes provides a detailed understanding of the genetic diversity and adaptability of corn plants. Researchers have mapped the first corn genome in 2009 and filled in gaps since, revealing how the corn genome was shuffled over time.
A new study reveals genome duplication events in ancient gymnosperms led to the origin of pines and other conifers, enabling them to adapt to changing ecosystems. The research suggests that duplicated DNA gave rise to unique traits such as diverse cone structures and egglike roots.
Recent innovations by University of Florida researchers at CABBI demonstrate the first successful precision breeding of sugarcane using CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing. This technique allows for precise changes in genes and introduces superior versions, potentially increasing productivity and sustainability.
Scientists assembled a high-quality genome of a European olive species, identifying genes involved in oleuropein biosynthesis. The study revealed 202 genes related to oleuropein, twice as many as previously known, and found olives genetically closest to the oleaster plant.
Scientists have developed a new framework for describing gene content and order across Brassica species, which will aid in evolution studies. This framework enables the acceleration of beneficial gene exchange between species, ultimately leading to more climate-resilient crops.
Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory found a gene responsible for reinstalling beneficial epigenetic modifications in plants. This process helps prevent the transmission of harmful genetic traits to offspring, allowing plants to evolve and diversify.
A team of scientists from China has sequenced the genome of Lavandula angustifolia to understand the genetics behind its distinctive fragrance. The study revealed that gene duplications and terpenoid diversification led to the evolution of unique compounds, with potential applications in stress relief, skin conditioning, and pollination.
Scientists have successfully identified the complete avenacin biosynthetic pathway in oats, which provides resistance to soil-borne diseases like take-all. This discovery has implications for creating disease-resistant lines of wheat using modern technologies.
A Chinese research team discovered that whiteflies use a plant gene to degrade common plant toxins, allowing them to feed on plants safely. The team developed a strategy to undo this superpower by creating a small RNA molecule that interferes with the whitefly's gene.
Researchers at the Chinese Academy of Sciences have developed a 'genome scalpel' to efficiently produce sustainable biofuels from sunlight and CO2 by removing non-essential genes from microalgae. This approach could lead to more efficient production of biomolecules like biofuels, with potential applications in renewable energy and redu...
A new method of DNA sequencing using PacBio HiFi sequencing has been successfully applied to assemble the genome of barley with high accuracy and speed. The approach yielded better quality genome sequences compared to other methods, including more complete genes and accurate reassembly of non-coding regions.
Researchers at the University of Queensland have created a highly detailed genome model for critically endangered Macadamia jansenii, a plant species that is rare in the wild. The model has been used to study the genetics and diversity of the species, providing valuable insights into how rare plant species survive population decline.
Researchers at the Salk Institute have made groundbreaking discoveries about the genome of Wolffia, a miniature aquatic plant that can grow twice as fast as other plants. The study reveals that Wolffia has shed most genes that don't contribute to growth, allowing it to focus on rapid development.
Researchers have produced a high-quality reference sequence of the complex switchgrass genome using samples from 10 experimental gardens across eight states. This allows breeders to test what genes affect the plant's adaptability to various environmental conditions and associate climate adaptations with switchgrass biology.
Researchers at University of Tsukuba have produced genome sequences of two wild tomato ancestors, Solanum pimpinellifolium and S. lycopersicum var. cerasiforme, which will aid in breeding improved crop varieties with enhanced disease resistance, climate tolerance, and taste.
A newly engineered CRISPR variant called SpRY enables targeted mutation of nearly any genomic sequence in plants, expanding genome editing capabilities and opening up new possibilities for crop improvement. This breakthrough discovery is a significant advancement in the field of plant genome editing.
Researchers have produced the most comprehensive genome of Sapria himalayana, a major Rafflesiaceae lineage found in Southeast Asia. The analysis revealed an astonishing degree of gene loss and surprising amounts of gene theft from ancient and modern hosts, offering new insights into the evolution of flowering plants.
Researchers have discovered a new pathway for intercellular exchange of large cell structures, enabling genetic material to be transferred between plants. This process allows for the creation of new plant species and has implications for crops like bread and durum wheat.
A USask-led international team has sequenced the genomes of 15 wheat varieties representing breeding programs worldwide, enabling scientists to quickly identify influential genes. The results provide a comprehensive atlas of wheat genome sequences, which will accelerate breeding efficiency and meet future food demands.
An international team has made a significant step closer to understanding the genetic information of barley by sequencing and decoding its genome. The research identified twenty highly diverse genotypes with unique structural variations in their chromosomes.
The study's results provide key insights into the genetic factors behind wheat's adaptability and diversity. The researchers found that chromosome fragments from wild grasses were cross-hybridized with wheat, leading to differences in immune receptors and enabling the crop to adapt to regional climate conditions.
Researchers at the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center have identified a novel seed dispersal gene in wild green millet, which could lead to more efficient crop production. The discovery was made through the analysis of nearly 600 genome sequences and confirmed by gene editing studies.
A joint EU conference explores GMOs, emphasizing EU regulation prospects and optimal use of scientific findings for consumer protection. The event features a series of free online webinars with prior registration.
Researchers developed a new software tool called WhatsHap polyphase to phase plant genomes in high resolution and with low error margins. The tool solves the problem using a two-phase process and is now available for polyploid organisms, including plants.
Researchers at UC Santa Barbara have identified a gene critical to the development of columbines' iconic spurs, which has led to rapid expansion in the genus. The discovery provides new insights into how key innovations evolve and could shed light on the genetic changes underlying this trait.
The Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. lini genome has been fully assembled, providing insights into the parasite's adaptation to flax and its potential for breeding resistant crop varieties. The study aims to elucidate specific mechanisms of Fusarium adaptation to different hosts and find genes responsible for its preferences.
A new genome sequencing technology has been used to decode the full genome of black mustard, providing insights into its genetic variation and traits. The research advances breeding of oilseed mustard crops and provides a foundation for improved breeding of wheat, canola, and lentils.
Researchers are using art to fill gaps in the history of fruits, vegetables, and cereal crops by analyzing ancient depictions. By studying artworks, they can determine what these plants looked like and where they were found in the past.
Researchers assembled 26 soybean genomes, identifying 14 million SNPs, to build a graph-based genome. This pan-genome reveals key genetic variations driving agronomic traits in soybeans.
A team of researchers discovered the genome sequence of catmint, revealing unique enzymes responsible for producing the cat attractant nepetalactone. The ability to produce iridoids had been lost in ancestors of catmint, but was later re-evolved in this species.
Researchers found that a transcription factor TGA1 accelerates plant growth in response to nitrogen, leading to increased biomass. The study's findings have implications for improving nitrogen use efficiency in crops, benefiting agriculture and sustainability.
Researchers sequence and dissect the structure of the extrachromosomal DNA replicon underlying glyphosate resistance in Palmer amaranth. The eccDNA replicon contains 59 genes, including the EPSPS gene, which shows higher expression after glyphosate treatment.
The study reveals that despite its widespread distribution, the cotton genome is remarkably stable, with only minor differences between species. This knowledge can inform breeding practices and improve crop yields.
A newly developed wheat variety contains higher levels of fructans, a naturally occurring carbohydrate that can promote healthy gut bacteria. The breeders used genomic selection to reduce the development time and cost of creating such a high-fructan wheat variety.
Research on ancient hornwort genomes has identified genes that boost carbon dioxide concentration, increasing yield, and those promoting symbiosis with bacteria for nitrogen acquisition. This discovery may lead to more efficient crops requiring less fertilizer.
Researchers sequenced three hornwort genomes, revealing genes that could boost crop efficiency and reduce nitrogen fertilizer use. The findings shed light on the evolution of early land plants and provide insights into the unique biology of hornworts.
A new CRISPR-Cas12b system enables efficient plant genome engineering with gene editing, activation and repression capabilities. The system outperforms existing CRISPR tools, offering improved efficiency and versatility for plant breeding and disease resistance.
Researchers developed a method to capture transient interactions of NLP7, a master transcription factor involved in nitrogen use in plants, showing that more than 50% of plant responses to nitrogen are controlled by these short-lived regulatory interactions.
The white lupin genome has been fully sequenced, revealing its potential for high-protein seeds and efficient phosphate solubilization. The discovery could help increase lupin's role in future plant-based protein production and address phosphate depletion.
The new tool, 'Kmasker plants', enables researchers to identify repetitive sequences in plant genomes and assign them to positions. This allows for the rapid analysis of complex genomes and can help identify sequence candidate regions with agronomic importance.
Scientists discovered two bursts of new genes that drove the evolution of land plants, contradicting previous gradualistic views. These genetic innovations enabled plant multicellularity and adaptation to terrestrial environments.
Researchers identified specific genomic regions that have changed in response to natural selection to allow plant species to adapt to new climatic conditions. These adaptations are linked to traits such as winter survival and flowering, enabling plants to thrive in diverse climates.
The water lily genome expands the picture of the early evolution of flowering plants, shedding light on key traits like flower development and attractive floral scent. Researchers used high-throughput sequencing technology to analyze the genome and transcriptome of Nymphaea colorata, identifying over 31 thousand protein-coding genes.
A new study published in Nature reports the genome sequence of the blue-petal water lily, finding evidence of genetic innovations that may have led to the evolution of floral scent and other traits in early-diverged flowering plants. The research sheds light on the early evolution of all angiosperms.
Researchers have discovered how the sorghum plant exercises exquisite control over its genome to survive harsh conditions. The study reveals that the plant modulates the expression of tens of thousands of genes in response to drought stress, with changes occurring within a week of water scarcity.
ORNL's Dan Jacobson and team designed algorithms to improve crop resilience to climate change. The AI technology enhances crop yields under variable weather conditions.
An international team of researchers has created a comprehensive watermelon genome resource to help plant breeders increase the domestic fruit's quality and ability to thrive during an era of climate change. The resource includes genetic insights into wild watermelon species and their potential for disease resistance, paving the way fo...
A global collaboration of scientists has examined the diversification of plant species, genes and genomes across 1 billion years. The study, published in Nature, involved 200 researchers from over 30 countries, including University of Tennessee faculty members C. Neal Stewart Jr. and Ed Schilling.
A recent study published in Nature reveals a new framework for understanding the evolution of green plants over 1 billion years. The research, led by an international consortium of scientists, generated gene sequences for over 1100 plant species and provides insight into how plants evolved to produce useful chemicals.
The One Thousand Plant Transcriptomes Initiative reveals the timing of whole genome duplications and the origins of key gene families contributing to fundamental genetic innovations in green plants. The study provides a framework for understanding plant diversity and evolutionary innovations.
A team of scientists discovered that classic Belgian beers, including Gueuze and Trappist ales, are fermented with rare hybrid yeasts combining DNA from traditional ale yeast and stress-resistant feral yeasts. This unique adaptation allows for better fermentation capacity and special aromas.
Researchers have sequenced and assembled the red pineapple genome, revealing how natural and artificial selection shaped key traits. The study supports the hypothesis that some plants can be domesticated in a single step through clonal propagation.
A WVU biologist is using a $2 million grant to study the genomic basis of invasive traits in Japanese stiltgrass. The project aims to understand how plants undergo rapid evolution to become invasive species, with potential implications for managing and preventing their spread.
Scientists uncover genetic variations in grapes, explaining differences in taste and color between wine varieties. The study's findings also have implications for plant breeding and understanding nutritional values of other fruits and vegetables.
Researchers discovered highly sensitive snails can digest cellulose, form hard eggshells and pack neurotoxins in eggs. Genome sequencing revealed key adaptations enabling the invasion of freshwater wetlands.
The avocado genome has been sequenced, shedding light on its ancient origins and providing a foundation for future improvements to farming. The study reveals that the popular Hass avocado inherited about 61% of its DNA from Mexican varieties and about 39% from Guatemalan ones.
Dodder parasitic plants have stolen over 100 functional genes from their host plants, contributing to their ability to latch onto and steal nutrients. The transferred genes also produce small segments of RNA that may act as weapons to silence host defense genes.
Newly discovered microscopic protists Rhodelphis limneticus and Rhodelphis marinus have a complex genome and chloroplast, indicating their close ties with plants in the distant past. They are genetically linked to red algae, but show a surprising evolutionary twist, pointing to an ancient organism resembling a triffid.
The genome of black-eyed peas has been fully sequenced, providing valuable insights into the genes responsible for their drought and heat tolerance. This breakthrough could help develop new crop varieties more resilient to climate change, particularly in regions where water availability is limited.
A new study presents the completed almond reference genome, revealing the genetic differences between toxic and sweet kernel genotypes. A cluster of transcription factors associated with sweet kernel genotypes was discovered, including bHLH2, which regulates the biosynthetic pathway for amygdalin production