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Plant researchers locate transporter used for nicotine metabolism

Scientists at Virginia Tech and Purdue University have identified a distinct transporter, NUP1, used by tobacco plant cells for nicotine metabolism. This discovery provides new insight into the production of medicinal alkaloid compounds and could enable bioengineering of medicinal plants to produce optimal amounts.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 1, 2011

Tastier tomatoes in the future?

Scientists have identified specific DNA fragments in tomatoes that influence their nutritional content and taste. By analyzing these fragments, researchers can develop targeted breeding strategies to create healthier and tastier tomatoes.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateMar 24, 2006

Plants discriminate between self and non self

Researchers found that plants grow more and longer secondary roots on the non-self side, suggesting a mechanism based on physiological coordination. This coordination might involve internal pulsing of hormonal or electrical signals that desynchronize when plants are separated.

Plants, insects play cat and mouse game

Research by Professor Anurag Agrawal reveals that plants can detect the difference between various insect species and respond accordingly, adjusting their growth, behavior, and chemical defenses. In turn, insects adapt their phenotype and physiology to better digest the plant, highlighting a flexible co-evolutionary strategy.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalScience·DateOct 24, 2001