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Genetic variant linked to cucumber fruit length

A team of researchers has identified a genetic variant, CsFUL1A, that modulates fruit length in cucumbers. The study found that decreased expression of CsFUL1A leads to longer fruits, while increased expression results in shorter fruits.

SourceAmerican Society of Plant Biologists·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateApr 12, 2019
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.

Plants can smell, now researchers know how

Researchers at the University of Tokyo have discovered how plants detect odor molecules by binding to transcriptional co-repressors, changing gene expression. This understanding may lead to new ways of influencing plant behavior, such as altering crop quality or deterring pests.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateJan 23, 2019

Mosquito-specific protein may lead to safer insecticides

Researchers identified a mosquito-specific protein, EOF1, which plays a crucial role in eggshell formation. Blocking its expression resulted in non-viable eggs and multiple structural defects. This discovery provides a promising target for developing more effective and safer mosquito control strategies.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJan 8, 2019

To repair DNA damage, plants need good contractors

Scientists at the Salk Institute discovered a complex gene regulation network that helps plants cope with DNA damage. The research identified approximately 2,400 genes responding to DNA damage, with only 200 directly activated by SOG1, revealing its 'hands-off' overseer role.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 13, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Organizing a cell's genetic material from the sidelines

A team of biologists has shed light on how lamins maintain the relative positions of DNA segments throughout the nucleus, influencing gene expression. This finding has implications for understanding lamin-associated aging and diseases, including premature aging, neuropathies, heart defects, and organ decay.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalMolecular Cell·DateJun 28, 2018

Blue gene regulation helps plants respond properly to light

Scientists at RIKEN have identified a key mechanism by which plant genes are regulated in response to light. The research found that blue light triggers a shift in the start site of gene expression, allowing plants to carry out photosynthesis and grow.

SourceRIKEN·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 18, 2018
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

New health benefits discovered in berry pigment

A study from the University of Eastern Finland has found that anthocyanins in berries increase SIRT6 enzyme levels and decrease cancer genes in human cells. The findings suggest a potential role for anthocyanins in preventing cancer growth, paving the way for new drug development.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 5, 2018

The circadian clock controls the cell cycle and tumor growth in plants

The circadian clock controls the speed of cell division and growth in synchronization with day and night cycles, regulating key cell cycle genes. The discovery has implications for understanding plant growth and productivity, as well as potential therapeutic tools to delay tumor development in humans.

SourceCentre for Research in Agricultural Genomics (CRAG)·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateMar 22, 2018

Light determines the genes that function in plant growth

Researchers found that VND1, VND2, and VND3 are essential for xylem development in cotyledons grown in the dark, but have little effect when grown in light. The study sheds light on how environmental factors influence gene expression in plants.

SourceNara Institute of Science and Technology·JournalPLANT PHYSIOLOGY·DateFeb 12, 2018

Some plants grow bigger -- and meaner -- when clipped, study finds

Researchers found that clipping plants can trigger an increase in defensive chemistry, leading to greater reproductive success. By manipulating a molecular pathway, the team was able to enhance seed production and defensive compound expression in plants.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalEcology·DateOct 11, 2017
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Penn biologists show how plants turn off genes they don't need

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have discovered a mechanism for regulating gene activity in plants by identifying small DNA sequences called Polycomb response elements (PREs) that direct the silencing of genes. These PREs can be manipulated using gene-editing techniques to alter gene expression without adding foreign gene...

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalNature Genetics·DateAug 21, 2017

More genes turned on when plants compete

Researchers at Michigan State University have discovered a gene that is turned on when plants compete for resources, including nitrogen fixing bacteria. This finding has potential implications for reducing manmade fertilizer use in agriculture.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Ecology·DateMay 15, 2017

New method for tapping vast plant pharmacopeia to make more effective drugs

Vanderbilt University scientists developed a new approach to identify gene networks responsible for producing biologically active compounds in plants. The method uses co-expression analysis of over 22,000 gene expression studies and identifies dozens of pathways producing small metabolites, including previously identified ones.

SourceVanderbilt University·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateApr 14, 2017
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.

Molecular conductors help plants respond to drought

Scientists at the Salk Institute have discovered key molecular conductors in plant stress responses, enabling a better understanding of how plants cope with environmental hardships. By controlling these conductors, researchers can potentially develop new technologies to optimize water use in plants and help agriculture adapt to drought.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalScience·DateNov 3, 2016

New mechanisms uncovered explaining frost tolerance in plants

Researchers at TUM found that brassinosteroids increase plant resistance to frost by regulating a protein called CESTA, which influences gene expression and fatty acid composition. This discovery may provide solutions to climate-related agricultural problems.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 4, 2016
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Diversity in a monoculture

Scientists used tobacco plants with altered defense genes to demonstrate that functional diversity within a species is essential for ecosystem health. The study found that variations in single plant genes can have large effects on whole plant populations, improving their ability to defend themselves against herbivores and other threats.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology·DateApr 15, 2015

Molecular feedback loop gives clues to how flowers drop their petals

Researchers identified a positive feedback loop between genes and proteins that regulates floral abscission, allowing plants to shed petals. The study, supported by the National Science Foundation, provides new insights into plant development and responses to environmental cues.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 25, 2015
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Harm and response

A comprehensive study reveals that plants respond uniquely to different insects, activating specific genes to defend against attacks. The research shows that plants can distinguish between closely related insect species, leading to targeted defense responses.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalFrontiers in Plant Science·DateFeb 12, 2015

Supercomputing the evolution of a model flower

Researchers used iPlant, Stampede and Lonestar supercomputers to identify genes sensitive to cold and drought in the flowering mustard weed Arabidopsis thaliana. This helps understand plant adaptation to climate change and can be applied to improve crops.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·JournalJournal of Molecular Biology·DateJan 27, 2015
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.

Rapid and accurate mRNA detection in plant tissues

Researchers develop a new ISH method, called RNAscope ISH, for rapid and sensitive localization of mRNA molecules in plant tissues. This approach is faster and highly sensitive than traditional methods, allowing for precise quantification of gene expression.

SourceBotanical Society of America·JournalAmerican Journal of Botany·DateApr 16, 2014

'Flipping the switch' reveals new compounds with antibiotic potential

Researchers at Oregon State University have discovered a new way to produce novel compounds with antibiotic potential by deleting a master regulator gene in a common fungus. This finding opens up the door to studying dozens of new compounds and potentially discovering new antibiotics.

SourceOregon State University·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateOct 31, 2013
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.

Research on wood formation sheds light on plant biology

Scientists at North Carolina State University discovered a novel protein controller that regulates gene expression in tree cells during wood formation. The controller protein prevents abnormal growth and promotes healthy wood formation by suppressing the expression of certain genes.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 23, 2012
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.

Planting the seeds of defense

Scientists discovered that exposure to pathogens causes significant changes in a plant's epigenetic code, which helps the plant develop resistance. These epigenetic changes are linked to genes responsible for coordinating stress responses, suggesting the epigenome plays a role in disease resistance.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 7, 2012

BPA exposure effects may last for generations

A recent study found that gestational exposure to BPA leads to behavioral changes in mice for four generations, including increased anxiety and aggression. The study suggests that BPA exposure could have long-lasting impacts on human behavior if it generalizes to humans.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalEndocrinology·DateJun 15, 2012

Manipulating plants' circadian clock may make all-season crops possible

Researchers at Yale University have identified a crucial gene, DET1, that regulates the plant circadian clock. This finding could lead to engineering plants that can thrive in different seasons and locations. By understanding the circadian rhythm, farmers may be able to grow crops year-round, reducing seasonal limitations.

SourceYale University·JournalMolecular Cell·DateSep 1, 2011
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

MU professor elected to membership in National Academy of Sciences

James Birchler, a renowned cytogeneticist, has been elected to the National Academy of Sciences for his pioneering work on chromosome structure and function. His innovative techniques have paved the way for introducing disease-resistant and agronomic traits into plants, with significant implications for agriculture and medicine.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·DateMay 5, 2011

Gene find could lead to healthier food, better biofuel production

Researchers at Purdue University have identified the last undiscovered gene responsible for producing phenylalanine, a crucial amino acid in plant proteins and flower scent. This discovery could enable the control of phenylalanine production to boost plant nutritional values and improve biofuel feedstocks.

SourcePurdue University·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateNov 22, 2010
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.

The developmental dynamics of the maize leaf transcriptome

Scientists at Boyce Thompson Institute have used RNAseq to track gene expression in maize leaves, revealing that entire suites of genes are turned on and off as the leaf develops. The study provides an unprecedented view of the genetic circuitry of the leaf and has significant implications for agriculture and bioenergy.

SourceBoyce Thompson Institute·JournalNature Genetics·DateNov 3, 2010

New genetic tool helps improve rice

USDA scientists have developed a new genetic tool to express beneficial genes in specific plant tissues, improving disease resistance and reducing side effects. The LP2 gene promoter can direct other introduced genes to target areas where they are needed most.

SourceUnited States Department of Agriculture - Research, Education and Economics·JournalPlant Biotechnology Journal·DateAug 19, 2010

Flowering and freezing tolerance linked in wheat, study shows

Scientists discovered a connection between flowering and freezing tolerance in wheat, enabling the crop to better withstand winter temperatures. The study found that exposing wheat varieties to non-freezing cold temperatures accelerates flowering time and prepares the plant to tolerate freezing.

SourceUnited States Department of Agriculture - Research, Education and Economics·DateJun 30, 2010

UK geneticists shed light on flowering plants

Researchers from Warwick University isolated a gene responsible for regulating CONSTANS expression, a key inducer of flowering in Arabidopsis. The discovery could enable more predictable flowering and better scheduling of crops.

SourceSociety for Experimental Biology·DateJun 29, 2010

Resistant wheat rebuilds cell walls when attacked by Hessian flies

Researchers found that resistant wheat plants under attack by Hessian fly larvae increase production of surface waxes and cutin, a molecule responsible for rigidity and integrity of epidermal cells. Susceptible plants have genes turned off, making them more permeable to the larvae.

SourcePurdue University·JournalThe Plant Journal·DateMay 19, 2010
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

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.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalNature·DateApr 1, 2010

It's a gas: New discovery may lead to heartier, high-yielding plants

Researchers have discovered how a 'genetic symphony' of genes affects plant development, enabling potential disease resistance and increased yields. The study found that combining different ACS genes regulates ethylene production, which impacts various aspects of plant growth.

SourceGenetics Society of America·JournalGenetics·DateNov 20, 2009

Plant biologists discover gene that switches on 'essence of male'

Researchers at the University of Leicester identified a critical role for the DUO1 gene in plant sperm cell production and fertilization. The study reveals that DUO1 regulates the division and specialization of sperm precursor cells, making it a key regulator in the double fertilization process.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateMar 19, 2009
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 tool probes function of rice genes

Researchers have developed a new tool to investigate the rice genome, covering nearly all 45,000 genes. The microarray reveals genes crucial for responding to light and stresses, including those involved in photosynthesis and photorespiration.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 8, 2008

'Biological clock' genes control plant growth

Researchers at Oregon State University have identified the biological clock genes responsible for plant growth spurts, which occur at night. The study uses DNA microarrays and bioinformatics to analyze thousands of genes in a short period, revealing that most plant genes are expressed only at a particular time of day.

SourceOregon State University·JournalPublication Library and Information Science·DateSep 15, 2008

Feeling sleepy is all in your genes

Research published in BMC Neuroscience found that genetic genes controlling the body clock also regulate the need for sleep, linking sleep to energy metabolism. The study used mice with different genetic make-ups to explore this connection, revealing changes in gene expression associated with sleep deprivation and recovery.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Neuroscience·DateOct 17, 2007
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.

Lessons in wood formation from Arabidopsis

Two studies published in The Plant Cell reveal the role of NAC transcription factors NST1 and NST3 in regulating secondary wall thickening in woody tissues of Arabidopsis. These genes are found to be redundantly involved in promoting secondary wall formation, with one gene compensating for the loss of function of the other.

SourceAmerican Society of Plant Biologists·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateMar 1, 2007

Trapped genes show how flower development is controlled

Researchers at Yale and Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory have identified 80 genes active in petal and stamen development using gene trapping. These findings provide insights into how gene activity is allocated during flower development, shedding light on critical roles in plant reproduction like cross-pollination and seed production.

SourceYale University·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateAug 3, 2005

Trapping genes that control flower development

Researchers identified 80 genes involved in flower development, shedding light on the regulation of floral organ identity and patterning. The gene trap technique provided a powerful tool for examining gene expression and function, revealing novel insights into floral development.

SourceAmerican Society of Plant Biologists·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateJul 29, 2005