A red future for improving crop production?
Researchers have engineered a red-algae-like Rubisco enzyme into crops, doubling CO2-fixation rates. The breakthrough aims to increase crop production and improve photosynthesis efficiency.
Photosynthesis
Articles tagged with Photosynthesis
E. coli bacteria offer path to improving photosynthesis
Researchers created an optimal experimental environment by introducing engineered plant enzyme into E. coli bacteria. They discovered that a specific subunit of Rubisco works faster than others and can be improved in bacteria to boost crop productivity.
Sunfleck use research needs appropriate experimental leaves
A recent study from the University of Guam found that leaves grown under fluctuating light respond better to sunflecks than those grown under homogeneous shade. The research highlights the need for experimental methods to mimic natural light fluctuations in plant physiology.
Evolution of oxygenic photosynthesis
Researchers discovered that rhodochrosite can be photooxidized by UV light under anoxic conditions, suggesting a possible alternative to biological catalysts for oxygenic photosynthesis. This finding provides insight into the evolution of oxygenic photosynthetic organisms on Earth.
Researchers discover novel molecular mechanism that enables conifers to adapt to winter
Researchers from the University of Turku discovered a novel molecular mechanism in conifers that enables them to adapt to winter conditions by dissipating excess light energy as heat. This finding sheds new light on photosynthesis regulation and its importance for conifer forests' carbon sink capacity.
Scientists further cowpea research--boosting canopy CO2 assimilation, water-use efficiency
A recent study published in Food and Energy Security found that optimizing cowpea canopies can significantly improve CO2 assimilation and water-use efficiency, leading to increased crop yields. Researchers used a canopy gas exchange chamber to measure plant responses to different canopy architectures, revealing that higher biomass cano...
Third breakthrough demonstrates photosynthetic hacks can boost yield, conserve water
Researchers have made two major breakthroughs to optimize photosynthesis, increasing crop growth by 27 percent in field trials. The discoveries improved the efficiency of electron transport and carbon fixation, resulting in increased productivity and water conservation.
A closer look at water-splitting's solar fuel potential
Researchers at Berkeley Lab and JCAP develop new technique to map out nanoscale changes in bismuth vanadate, leading to improved oxygen production and reduced degradation. The study provides insight into the material's properties and their impact on water-splitting reactions.
Back to the future: new study could lead to bumper crops
A breakthrough in understanding rubisco, a crucial enzyme in photosynthesis, could lead to significant gains in crop production. By revisiting a billion-year-old strategy, scientists have identified new ways to enhance rubisco activity.
Day in, day out: Targeting the daily magnesium "rhythm" can optimize crop yield
Researchers find that manipulating magnesium intake can improve photosynthetic efficiency and growth in rice plants. By understanding the daily pattern of magnesium uptake, scientists may be able to develop new strategies for improving crop yields and addressing global food shortages.
Enzymes as double agents: New mechanism discovered in protein modification
Researchers identified eight new acetyltransferases in plants, which are doubly catalytically active and play a role in photosynthesis. The study reveals an entirely new complexity within the enzyme machinery, suggesting other enzymes with similar dual activities exist in eukaryotic cells.
New study resolves mystery surrounding unique light-harvesting structures in algae
Scientists have uncovered new structural details of an aquatic microorganism's LHCI-PSI complex, shedding light on the energy harvesting and transfer process. The discovery highlights unique features of diatom proteins, which can inform the development of efficient solar-energy utilization devices.
Light a critical factor in limiting carbon uptake, especially in the north
A new study by Columbia University reveals that even as temperatures warm, light remains a major factor in limiting carbon uptake in northern high latitudes. This limitation means that these regions will not become more conducive to vegetation growth and instead release more carbon dioxide.
Redox states in subcellular compartments of plant cells estimated with protein sensors
Researchers introduce fluorescence protein sensors into live plants to visualize dynamic changes in NADPH level and NADH/NAD+ ratio in different cell types. This allows for the study of photosynthesis and photorespiration, revealing the close connection between subcellular compartments for efficient metabolism.
Undergrad-led study suggests light environment modifications could maximize productivity
A recent study published in Frontiers in Plant Science found that crops' lower leaves are less efficient due to altered light conditions, not age. This 'Achilles' heel' can cause a 10% loss of potential canopy photosynthesis gain, highlighting the importance of optimizing light environments for improved crop yields.
Plant cell gatekeepers' diversity could be key to better crops
Researchers have identified 76 types of aquaporins in tobacco, a model plant species closely related to major crops like tomato and potato. This discovery sheds light on the functional roles of aquaporins in plants, which could lead to improved crop productivity and resilience.
Showtime for photosynthesis
Researchers have captured a molecular mechanism behind the water splitting reaction of photosynthesis using nanoscale imaging and chemical analysis. The study could help inform the design of artificial photosynthetic systems producing clean and renewable energy from sunlight and water.
Physicist to study bacteria undergoing photosynthesis
Nathaniel Gabor's lab is developing a new microscopy technique to study bacterial growth in light and examine the physics of light harvesting. The project aims to gain precise control of optical excitation at the single cell level, potentially upending the current state of knowledge on light sensing in biosystems.
Formate dehydrogenase reduces carbon dioxide to formic acid
Scientists have developed a catalyst that directly converts carbon dioxide into formic acid using sunlight. The discovery marks a significant step towards creating an artificial photosynthesis system that efficiently converts CO2 into organic molecules.
Photosynthesis in a droplet
A Max Planck research team led by Tobias Erb developed an artificial chloroplast platform capable of capturing and converting greenhouse gas carbon dioxide with light. The system, created using synthetic biology and microfluidics, outperforms previous synthetic-biological approaches in binding rates for carbon dioxide.
Arizona State University scientists rewire photosynthesis to fuel our future
Researchers have successfully reengineered the Photosystem I complex to produce biohydrogen, a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels. The innovation could lead to the creation of low-cost, renewable energy platforms using sunlight and water.
Scientists take a step closer to heat-tolerant wheat
Researchers from Lancaster University have successfully modified a molecular building block in wheat to activate Rubisco faster in hotter temperatures. This breakthrough could help protect crops from rising temperatures and improve global food security.
No time to waste to avoid future food shortages
Researchers are developing innovative solutions to increase crop production under climate change conditions, including improving photosynthesis and making crops more resistant to drought. The goal is to double cereal production by 2050 to ensure global food security.
Limitations on end-of-season photosynthesis
A study using satellite data and in-situ sensor observations found that the end date of plant photosynthesis is constrained by both temperature and water limits. As temperatures decrease, soil water demands increase to support continued vegetation growth, potentially leading to expansions of regions with limited photosynthesis.
Precipitation will be essential for plants to counteract global warming
A new study from Columbia University reveals that the balance between soil water and energy availability determines whether plant growth is limited by precipitation or temperature. This finding highlights the crucial role of precipitation in supporting plant photosynthesis, particularly during the late growing season.
Discovery of a mechanism plants use to toggle on photosynthesis chosen by top journal
A research team at Washington State University has identified the lipid controlling the switch in light-harvesting proteins to dissipate excess energy. This discovery could lead to optimizing photosynthesis in crops for specific environments, reducing waste and increasing food production.
Even bacteria need their space: Squished cells may shut down photosynthesis
Researchers discovered that when cyanobacteria cells become too crowded, they shut down photosynthesis as a defense mechanism. This phenomenon allows the cells to slow down growth and avoid rupture, providing insights into how organisms regulate this essential process.
Nature-inspired green energy technology clears important development hurdle
A team of scientists has developed a nature-inspired design for artificial photosynthesis, capable of generating large sources of renewable energy using CO2. The system consists of nanoscale tubes that mimic the structure of living photosynthetic cells, allowing for efficient conversion of sunlight into fuel.
Technology to screen for higher-yielding crop traits is now more accessible to scientists
A team from the University of Illinois has developed a new method to quickly screen thousands of plants for key traits related to photosynthesis. This breakthrough technology uses hyperspectral cameras to analyze light reflected off plant surfaces and estimate trait values, allowing researchers to identify promising plants for further ...
Plant physiology: Safeguarding chloroplasts from sunburn
Researchers have discovered a previously unknown signaling pathway that protects chloroplasts from damage caused by intense sunlight. This pathway, involving the protein SAFE1, suppresses light-induced programmed cell death and promotes stress tolerance in plants.
Photosynthesis varies greatly across rice cultivars -- natural diversity could boost yields
Researchers found a 117% difference in photosynthetic efficiency between rice varieties under fluctuating and constant light conditions. This suggests that natural diversity in rice could be harnessed to increase crop productivity.
Boost soybean yields by adapting photosynthesis to fleeting shadows, according to model
A new mathematical computer model predicts that soybean crops lose up to 13% of their productivity due to minute-by-minute light fluctuations. The study aims to improve photosynthesis and equip farmers with higher-yielding crops to ensure global food security.
Speedy recovery: New corn performs better in cold
Researchers at Boyce Thompson Institute developed a new type of corn that recovers much more quickly after a cold snap, allowing for earlier harvests and potentially higher crop yields. This breakthrough could enable farmers to command better prices for their crops in temperate climates.
Another reason to reduce man-made ozone: To cool a warming planet
New research suggests that cleaning up ozone precursors in energy, industrial, and transportation sectors can mitigate climate change by increasing the land's ability to remove carbon dioxide through photosynthesis. This could result in a 15% increase in the size of the current land sink for carbon.
Addressing global warming with new nanoparticles and sunshine
Researchers at the Institute for Basic Science have developed a new strategy to convert CO2 into oxygen and pure carbon monoxide using nanoparticles. The hybrid catalyst, made of blue titania, tungsten trioxide, and silver, shows 200 times higher performance than previous versions.
New study on a recently discovered chlorophyll molecule could be key to better solar cells
A team of researchers has uncovered the location and functions of Chl f, a newly discovered chlorophyll molecule that could improve solar cell efficiency. The study found that far-red light causes structural changes in photosystem I, leading to Chl f synthesis and enhancing up-hill energy transfer.
Plant physiology: One size may not suit all
A new study published in Nature Plants reveals that there is no simple or universal solution to the problem of engineering plants to cope with the challenges posed by climate change. Higher levels of photoprotection may actually interfere with other mechanisms important for plant growth, and targeted adaptation is a complex task.
Switching tracks: Reversing electrons' course through nature's solar cells
Researchers from Washington University in St. Louis and Argonne National Laboratory have successfully reversed the flow of electrons in a purple photosynthetic bacteria, achieving a 90% yield on the B-branch side. This breakthrough discovery sheds light on the earliest light-driven events of photosynthesis and could aid in designing bi...
Scientists clarify light harvesting in green algae
Researchers characterized the light-harvesting system of Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, a common unicellular green alga. The study reveals the assembly mechanisms and energy transfer pathways of the C2S2M2L2 supercomplex, shedding light on efficient light harvesting in green algae.
The global distribution of freshwater plants is controlled by catchment characteristics
Freshwater plants in lakes with high bicarbonate concentrations have higher photosynthesis yields, altering species richness and composition. This shift is expected to change underwater meadow structure and predator protection for small animals and juvenile fish.
Catchment geology rules freshwater plant communities
A global study reveals that bicarbonate use among aquatic plants is linked to local geology and concentration levels. Many freshwater plants have evolved to use bicarbonate for photosynthesis due to low dissolved CO2 in water.
Experts unlock key to photosynthesis, a find that could help us meet food security demands
Researchers have solved the structure of cytochrome b6f, a protein complex that powers plant growth via photosynthesis. The discovery reveals new insights into how the complex regulates photosynthetic efficiency in response to environmental conditions.
Too much sugar doesn't put the brakes on turbocharged crops
Recent research on turbocharged crops reveals that their productivity lies in sugar sensing mechanisms regulating photosynthesis. Unlike C3 plants, C4 crops are not sensitive to high levels of sugars, suggesting a more complex feedback mechanism.
Photosynthesis seen in a new light by rapid X-ray pulses
Researchers used ultrashort X-ray pulses to study Photosystem I, a large biomolecular system converting sunlight into chemical energy. This breakthrough paves the way for time-resolved studies on electron transfer in photosynthesis, with potential applications in medicine and next-generation solar energy storage.
OU-led study reveals dry season increase in photosynthesis in Amazon rain forest
A University of Oklahoma-led study found a significant increase in photosynthesis in the Amazon rainforest during the dry season, as measured by satellite-based solar-induced chlorophyll fluorescence. The study provides new insights into the dynamics of Amazonian photosynthesis and its impact on global atmospheric carbon concentrations.
Photosynthesis olympics: can the best wheat varieties be even better?
Researchers conducted a 'Photosynthesis Olympics' study to identify the most efficient wheat varieties, finding that top performers were up to 90% better than worst ones due to genetic differences. The results have significant implications for breeders and farmers, offering potential for improved yields with reduced inputs.
Scientists find ways to improve cassava, a 'crop of inequality' featured at Goalkeepers
A recent study published in New Phytologist identified opportunities to boost cassava yields by optimizing photosynthesis. Researchers found that cassava's stomata limit photosynthesis during light transitions, and increasing the speed of these pores could increase yield potential by up to 6%.
Peatlands trap CO2, even during droughts
Researchers found that two Sphagnum species in the Le Forbonnet peatland can survive extreme temperatures and droughts. This suggests that preserving peatlands is crucial for mitigating climate change.
Terahertz waves reveal hidden processes in ultrafast artificial photosynthesis
A team of researchers directly observed charge transfer and intermolecular interactions in artificial photosynthesis on a picosecond scale. They used time-resolved attenuated total reflection spectroscopy in the terahertz region to reveal the process, which involves rhenium complexes and Triethanolamine solvent.
Discovery of a bottleneck relief in photosynthesis may have a major impact on food crops
Researchers have found a way to accelerate the photosynthetic process by producing more of a protein that controls electron flow, potentially leading to increased crop production. The discovery is significant because C4 crops, such as maize and sorghum, play a crucial role in world agriculture.
Missing link in algal photosynthesis found, offers opportunity to improve crop yields
Researchers from Louisiana State University have made a groundbreaking discovery in the process of photosynthesis, shedding light on a long-standing puzzle. The study reveals three transport proteins that facilitate the movement of bicarbonate into the compartment where Rubisco resides, a crucial step in carbon dioxide fixation. This b...
Mechanisms underlying forest water-use efficiency
Forest water-use efficiency has been increasing globally, with trees conserving water through elevated CO2 levels. Photosynthesis is the primary driver of this increase, while stomatal conductance reduction is limited to drier forests.
Strange bacteria hint at ancient origin of photosynthesis
Researchers found similar structures in rare bacteria and modern cyanobacteria, suggesting the process is older than thought. This challenges the traditional view that oxygenic photosynthesis evolved from anoxygenic photosynthesis a billion years ago.
How multicellular cyanobacteria transport molecules
Multicellular cyanobacteria have developed cell junctions that allow for the exchange of nutrients and messengers across cell boundaries. The channels are composed of a protein tube sealed with a plug at both ends, and have a five-armed protein structure similar to a camera aperture.
Improved model could help scientists better predict crop yield, climate change effects
A new computer model simulates stomatal movements in response to light, enabling scientists to predict crop yields and climate change effects. The model has the potential to create virtual plants for more accurate predictions, improving food productivity sustainably.
Research details response of sagebrush to 2017 solar eclipse
Research reveals sagebrush's response to 2017 solar eclipse showed significant reductions in photosynthesis and transpiration. The study also found that the circadian rhythm was interrupted by sudden changes in sunlight, triggering a response beyond what happens when clouds block sunlight.
Science snapshots: New nitrides, artificial photosynthesis, and TMDC semiconductors
Researchers have developed a large interactive stability map of ternary nitrides, predicting 244 new stable compounds. Artificial photosynthesis has also been improved by controlling cobalt oxide catalysts. Additionally, atomically thin semiconductors called TMDCs have shown a quantum yield of 100% when treated with an electrical voltage.
A forest 'glow' reveals awakening from hibernation
Researchers linked seasonal photosynthesis cycles to solar-induced fluorescence in evergreen forests, enabling large-scale monitoring of carbon dioxide uptake. The study found that fluctuations in photoprotective pigments affect both photosynthesis and fluorescence, providing a proxy for forest activity.
Observing forest fluorescence from space
Researchers use satellite-based fluorescence measurements to track photosynthesis and monitor forest health. Chlorophyll fluorescence emission closely tracks photosynthetic activity in evergreen forests, providing insights into large-scale forest dynamics.
How plant cells neutralize the potential for self-harm
Researchers discovered how plant cells shield themselves from excessive reactive oxygen molecules that can cause cellular damage. By diverting these reactivity into other processes, plants minimize self-inflicted harm, which could help scientists engineer crops with improved yields.