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Discovery upturns understanding of how some viruses multiply

Researchers have found that different segments of a virus genome can exist in distinct cells but still cause an infection, contradicting a long-held model. The study, published in eLife, used fluorescent probes to detect viral segments in individual cells and found that distinct segments are often found in different cells.

SourceeLife·DateMar 12, 2019

Breeding a better strawberry

Researchers have sequenced and analyzed the cultivated strawberry genome, providing a genetic roadmap for more precise selection of desired traits. This will help breeders grow strawberries that are resistant to diseases and meet consumer demands for quality.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalNature Genetics·DateFeb 25, 2019

An entire botanical garden of genomes

Researchers from China's National GeneBank and BGI sequenced 761 plant specimens, representing 689 vascular plant species, to create the world's first digital botanical garden. The project triples the number of plant genomes with available data, providing insights into plant evolution and agricultural yield improvement.

SourceGigaScience·JournalGigaScience·DateJan 24, 2019

Genome doubling, cell size and novelty

A recent study by Doyle and Coate explores the mechanisms of polyploidy in plants, highlighting its impact on cell biology and evolutionary novelty. The authors found that genome doubling can alter cell size, nuclear volume, and cell cycle duration, with many effects attributed to changes in bulk DNA amount.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalInternational Journal of Plant Sciences·DateJan 15, 2019

Mobile, instant diagnosis of viruses

A new high-throughput sequencing technique enables quick diagnosis of viruses like Ebola and Zika in the field, avoiding sample transfer. The technology has been validated in plant virology, paving the way for real-time detection of chronic or emerging plant viruses.

SourceCirad·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 10, 2019

Nontraditional genetic code in parasitic plant

Researchers sequenced and analyzed the plastid genomes of two species of Balanophora, a fully parasitic mushroom-like plant, revealing a nontraditional genetic code. The discovery includes a novel stop codon TAG that encodes tryptophan, and most genes involved in protein synthesis reside outside the traditional plastid genome.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 31, 2018

Mysteries of the primrose unraveled

Researchers at University of East Anglia have successfully sequenced the common primrose's complete genome sequence, revealing the landscape of genes involved in its two different flowering forms. This breakthrough provides fresh insight into a puzzle that has captivated scientists for over 150 years.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 18, 2018

Scientists decode opium poppy genome

Researchers have determined the DNA code of the opium poppy genome, unlocking key steps in how the plant evolved to produce vital medicines. The discovery may lead to improved yields and disease resistance, securing a reliable supply of effective pain relief medications.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalScience·DateAug 30, 2018

The highly complex sugarcane genome has finally been sequenced

The sugarcane genome has been sequenced using a novel method that leverages colinearity with the sorghum genome, enabling molecular screening techniques for breeding and biomass production. The reference sequence obtained is of high quality, revolutionizing genomic and genetic approaches for sugarcane species.

SourceCirad·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 11, 2018

Where GM meets GE

Rothamsted Research will conduct a field trial of genome-edited (GE) Camelina, a genetically modified crop that accumulates omega-3 fatty acids, alongside a traditional GM version. The trials aim to investigate the efficiency of genetic engineering in developing plants with desired traits, such as improved nutrition and sustainability.

Biologists ID temporal logic of regulatory genes affecting nitrogen use efficiency in plan

A team of biologists and computer scientists have developed a time-based machine-learning approach to understand the temporal logic of nitrogen signaling in plants. This discovery has significant implications for global food production and sustainable agriculture by potentially offering new ways to monitor and enhance crop growth using...

SourceNew York University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 14, 2018

Genome of wheat ancestor sequenced

The genome of a wild ancestor of bread wheat, Aegilops tauschii, has been sequenced by an international team of scientists. The findings will enable researchers to discover new genes improving wheat quality and resistance to diseases. This breakthrough technology can be applied to other plant genomes.

Sifting gold from the data deluge

Researchers develop new data mining technique to extract genetic information from large sequence data sets. The method, tested on a plant family with unique floral structures, retrieves useful sequences from genes influencing flower shape and symmetry.

SourceBotanical Society of America·JournalApplications in Plant Sciences·DateNov 8, 2017

What's your story, morning glory?

Researchers successfully altered the flower color of Japanese morning glory from violet to white using CRISPR/Cas9 genome-editing technology. The study highlights the potential of CRISPR/Cas9 for studying and manipulating genes in horticultural plants.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 4, 2017