Articles tagged with Plants
Researchers at Michigan State University are using high-throughput genetic screening to identify genes affecting chloroplast structure and function, which could lead to plants bred for biofuel or high-nutrient content. This advanced technology gives scientists a broader perspective on plant metabolism than traditional methods.
A study by ASHS researchers found no correlation between pepper heat levels and resistance to Phytophthora blight. Instead, genetic differences, cuticle thickness, and other factors may play a role in fruit response to the disease.
Purdue University researchers identified a role for small-interfering RNAs in regulating and shutting down primary cell wall growth, which may enhance total plant biomass. This discovery could lead to increased cellulose production for plant-based biofuels.
Researchers found that plant roots have a mechanism to detect UV-B light levels, thanks to the RUS1 gene. This discovery sheds light on how plants respond to UV-B radiation, and may lead to better understanding of plant development.
Researchers at Washington University found that corridors improve species diversity in fragmented landscapes, with birds and wind-dispersed plants responding positively to connectivity. Surprisingly, unassisted plant species also benefited from corridor presence, suggesting possible assistance from mammals.
A unique fungus, Gliocladium roseum, has been discovered to produce diesel compounds from cellulose, offering a promising alternative to traditional biofuels. The fungus can make myco-diesel directly from cellulose, skipping a step in the production process.
Researchers convert olive stones into bioethanol using low-cost, eco-friendly process. Yields of 5.7kg ethanol per 100kg of olive stones reached in study published in Journal of Chemical Technology & Biotechnology.
Researchers found that PIN proteins are transported throughout the cell membrane and then endocytosed before being recycled and transported to the bottom of the cell. This mechanism allows plants to quickly adapt to changes in gravity, enabling new 'undersides' for roots and shoots.
A new experiment simulates predicted rainfall patterns and assesses the effect of diverse plant species on ecosystem responses. The study focuses on how changes in plant diversity modify key functions such as water processing, nutrient cycling, and carbon storage under changing climate conditions.
The number of alien plant species in Europe has more than tripled over the last 25 years, with 5789 species classified as invasive. The UK, Germany, and Belgium report the highest numbers of naturalized aliens, which can lead to long-term changes in ecosystems and economic costs.
Researchers have developed a new strain of bacteria that can convert waste plant fibre into ethanol, providing a potential solution to the UK's transport fuel needs. The process is energy-efficient and uses agricultural waste materials, offering greater environmental benefits than traditional biofuels.
Researchers found that capsaicin slows microbial growth and protects the fruit from Fusarium fungus, allowing seeds to be dispersed. The production of capsaicin comes at a cost for chili plants, with thin seed coats being a consequence of prioritizing chemical protection.
Researchers discovered a gene linked to melon sex switching, which suggests evolutionary selection favoring the mutation. This finding provides insights into the molecular basis of sex determination and different sexual systems in plants.
Researchers have released the world's most extensive collection of kiwifruit DNA sequences, which will help breeders create new varieties with improved nutritional content and desirable traits. The data is expected to speed up the development of new kiwifruit varieties through Marker Assisted Selection.
Researchers at Dartmouth College have identified a crucial gene involved in chloroplast iron acquisition and efficient photosynthesis. The FRO7 gene is essential for plants to take up iron from the soil, particularly in iron-deficient conditions.
A study found that plant sterols can accumulate in aortic valves, increasing the risk of stenosis. High levels of plant sterols were linked to higher blood concentrations, suggesting a potential health risk.
Researchers discovered that mammalian clock proteins respond directly to light, similar to plant cryptochromes. In humans and animals, this response affects circadian rhythms differently than in mice, where missing cryptochromes lead to complete loss of rhythm behaviors.
A genetic tool called RNA interference may help remove harmful microbes and viruses from drinking water. The approach, which targets a specific gene in a fungus found in water, has promise for solving safe drinking water issues in underdeveloped countries.
A study by Drs. Sophia Kamenidou and Todd J. Cavins found that silicon supplementation improved horticultural traits in greenhouse-produced sunflowers, such as increased stem diameter and flower quality, but also caused growth abnormalities at high concentrations.
Researchers found that luteolin and diosmin reduced levels of amyloid-beta, a protein that builds up in the brains of patients with Alzheimer's. The flavonoids work by targeting presenilin-1, a protein linked to the disease.
Researchers found evidence that fungi can 'lock' depleted uranium into a mineral form that may be less likely to find its way into plants, animals, or the water supply. Fungal-based approaches should not be neglected in remediation attempts for metal-polluted soils.
Researchers at UCR propose a novel pathway for how anti-aging compounds like EthylBloc and SmartFresh block ethylene's action on plants. This knowledge could guide the design of new ethylene-blocking chemicals, benefiting producers and consumers.
A new study by Dr. Terri Starman found that container gardens can increase in value with educational material, and most people prefer those with complementary color harmony for $25. The research suggests retailers should offer more extensive plant care information to cash in on the trend.
Researchers identified a new immune polyradiculoneuropathy affecting workers at several pork processing plants, causing nerve damage and inflammation in legs. Thirteen out of 15 patients showed elevated protein levels in cerebrospinal fluid and activation of their immune systems.
A new study suggests that daily consumption of CocoaVia dark chocolate bars containing cocoa flavanols and plant sterols significantly lowers total cholesterol by 2 percent and LDL cholesterol by 5.3 percent in individuals with elevated cholesterol. Regular consumption also reduces systolic blood pressure by 5 percent after 8 weeks.
Scientists at the John Innes Centre have discovered how roots use a growth control mechanism to find their way through soil and overcome obstacles. By exploring the soil in a similar way to humans navigating in the dark, root hairs can sense and adapt to changes in their environment.
Brent Christner's team found biological particles in precipitation, which can catalyze freezing at warmer temperatures, affecting precipitation patterns. The discovery has implications for understanding agricultural pathogens and their role in the global warming process.
A £500,000 project will use biotechnology to develop pest-resistant plantains to combat losses of up to half of the crop due to nematode worms. The initiative will also provide a reliable source of nutritious crops for impoverished communities.
Cold Spring Harbor Protocols highlights two RNA-based methods for understanding developmental processes in plants and flies. The first method uses RNAi to investigate gene function in fruit flies, while the second protocol describes how to detect where and when a gene is expressed in young plant tissues.
Researchers used nitrogen isotopic discrimination to identify non-organic sweet pepper plants grown with synthetic fertilizers. The study found that synthetic fertilizers significantly reduced nitrogen isotope ratios, with old leaves and fruits being more sensitive to the additions.
Scientists at University of Cambridge identified a signalling molecule governing plant circadian clock response to environmental changes. This discovery alters the current understanding of the circadian clock and may have significant implications for agriculture.
Research by Dr. Terri W. Starman identified the strongest survivors of postharvest experiences among popular garden plants marketed to consumers. High-quality plants may look healthy but decline in quality within a week, with most becoming unmarketable after three weeks.
Researchers discovered that some flower bulbs can move down into the ground in search of better growing conditions. Exposure to blue light triggers this movement, which is achieved through a hydraulic shift in cortical cells.
A £1.7 million project led by the University of Leeds seeks to fully sequence the DNA of G. pallida, a parasitic worm attacking potato crops worldwide. The research aims to understand its mechanisms and lead to sustainable management methods.
Researchers uncover the mechanism of photoprotection in plants, enabling them to convert excess light energy into harmless heat. This discovery could lead to more resilient crops and improved solar energy technology.
A University of Virginia study shows that plant offspring from maternal plants in the same environment outperform those raised differently, indicating a temporary mechanism of adaptation to local conditions. The findings highlight the significance of maternal effects in plant biology.
The new 'Raider Amethyst' prairie verbena is a water-conserving wildflower bred to provide compact, dependable color in drought-tolerant landscapes. It reduces urban water usage by utilizing potable water-efficient plants like Raider Amethyst.
Researchers at Ohio State University have successfully used TRAP to preserve the genetic diversity of ornamental geranium collections. The study resulted in a significant reduction of the collection size from approximately 800 plants to around 200, making it more manageable for breeders and researchers.
Researchers have identified multiple genes that confer broad-spectrum resistance to Turnip Mosaic Virus in brassicas like broccoli and cabbage. This discovery has the potential to develop resilient crop varieties that can withstand virus mutations.
Researchers found that using 0-8 millimeter pumice in pots higher than 15 centimeters significantly increases yields for gypsophila and cucumber plants. The most balanced and safe type of pumice, the two finest grades, provide optimal moisture retention.
Mother of thousands plant reproduces by dropping off complete miniature plants that grow independently, unlike most plants which rely on seeds. The plant's ability to make plantlets has been linked to the expression of specific genes STM and LEC.
Scientists have discovered a new enzyme that produces vitamin C in plants, revealing the antioxidant's critical role in plant growth. The findings also suggest that vitamin C is necessary for plants to grow, contradicting previous assumptions.
Researchers found that adult males share desirable fruits with females of reproductive age, particularly with a female involved in most consortships. This behavior is believed to be an attractive trait, drawing positive attention from females and securing social bonds through grooming and mating access.
Dr. Elliot Meyerowitz has been awarded a grant from the American Society of Plant Biologists (ASPB) Foundation to develop a teacher-training program focused on plant science education public outreach. The program will use plants as model systems to address state biology standards in the Pasadena Unified School District.
A new study published in Journal of Biogeography reveals that ancestors of Proteaceae plants must have crossed the Atlantic and Indian Oceans to reach their current distribution ranges. This finding challenges the long-held assumption that Gondwanaland's biota simply moved with the continents as they broke up.
The study aims to explore the genetics of the coconut to infer historical relationships among populations. The research will focus on understanding the plant's ancient dispersal, geographical origin of domestication, and impact of human activities on population structure.
Researchers are studying various biosignatures to infer the composition of extrasolar planet atmospheres. They explore theories about what other worlds might be like, including different types of pigments for photosynthesis. One key clue is disequilibrium, where simultaneous presence of contradictory substances could indicate life.
The Arctic has seen its spring arrive significantly earlier than it did just a decade ago, with flowering dates advancing by up to 30 days in some species. This rapid change is considered one of the clearest signals of biological response to rising temperatures, and offers an early warning of global warming's effects.
Researchers found endosomes facilitate plant growth through brassinosteroid receptor trafficking, affecting shoot and root growth. This discovery expands understanding of endosome function in plants, shedding light on their evolutionary origins.
Researchers at McMaster University discovered that plants can recognize their siblings and favor kin, leading to increased root growth in familial arrangements. This ability is common in animals but rare in plants.
Researchers have developed a patented pretreatment process for biomass, ammonia fiber expansion (AFEX), making the breakdown of cellulose more efficient. This technology has the potential to replace gasoline and diesel with cheaper, better-for-the-environment biofuels.
Scientists have found that pretreating corn plant tissue with hot water increases ethanol yields by exposing minute pores of the cell walls, allowing enzymes to break down cellulose more efficiently. This discovery could lead to a viable method for large-scale production of cellulosic ethanol, a key component of green fuels.
A new Duke University study suggests that healthy coastal wetlands can adjust to rising sea levels by maintaining their vegetation and sediment supplies. This adaptation enables the marshes to function as effective buffers against coastal storms, while also providing habitat for commercially important fin and shellfish.
James Kronstad's research focuses on smut fungi, a group of pathogens that infect crop plants. He discovered the method used by these fungi to invade plants and shut down seed production, paving the way for the development of targeted fungicides.
A team of researchers has discovered a unique hybrid species of butterfly in the Sierra Nevada mountains, with genes from both parent species. The study suggests that natural selection played a crucial role in its evolution, highlighting the importance of understanding how animal species emerge.
Researchers used NASA earth observations to predict wildfires in southern California, identifying key factors such as plant moisture and fuel condition. The study found that the instruments can detect conditions favorable for wildfires, improving wildfire prediction and monitoring capabilities.
A QUT research project will expand its focus on improving the production and nutritional value of bananas, aiming to control diseased banana planting material in East Africa. The project's success could make a major difference to the health of the region's population.
Scientists identify the gene responsible for apple skin's rosy red hue, which is also an antioxidant. This discovery could lead to breeding new apple varieties with improved fruit color and potential health benefits.
Researchers at Iowa State University are working with Frontline BioEnergy to develop a renewable alternative to natural gas in ethanol production. The new technology uses partial combustion of biomass to produce producer gas, which can replace natural gas in plant heaters and be upgraded into high-value fuels.
Advances in plant science research are needed to reduce costs and multiply production of biofuels from plant cellulose. Somerville calls for increased efficiency of solar energy capture to transition the nation's transportation sector to use of domestically produced biofuels.