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New study provides insight into the plant immune system

A recent study explores the plant immune system using chimeric maize leaves with an auto-active R protein. Researchers found that Rp1-D21 triggers a defense response without recognition events, leading to cell death in affected areas but not neighboring cells.

SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalMolecular Plant-Microbe Interactions·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 2, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Pusan National University researchers shed light on the early development of rice seeds

A team of scientists led by Assistant Professor Lae-Hyeon Cho identified a single mutation in the gene that codes for cytidine triphosphate synthase (CTPS), an enzyme crucial for early endosperm development. The study showed that overexpressing CTPS in genetically modified rice plants results in a larger endosperm, opening up opportuni...

SourcePusan National University·JournalPlant Biotechnology Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 23, 2021

New approach can add diversity to crop species without breeding GMOs

A new genetic technique edits every chloroplast in a plant without changing its nuclear DNA. Researchers achieved this by modifying chloroplast genes specifically and removing the DNA editing tool, which cannot be inherited by future seeds. This approach could potentially solve both technical challenges and controversies surrounding GMOs.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature Plants·DateJul 1, 2021

Breeding better seeds: Healthy food for more people

Researchers are using digital imaging technology to measure seed traits, enabling faster development of new crop varieties. Plant breeders aim to create seeds with more calories, improved nutrition and resilience to stress, ultimately ensuring sustainable food production.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalCrop Science·DateFeb 17, 2021
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.

Memory of the Venus flytrap

Research team successfully visualized intracellular calcium concentrations in the Venus flytrap, revealing that its short-term memory can be explained by changes in calcium concentration. The study demonstrates how a single contact event triggers a burst of calcium ions, which then trigger a second stimulus to close the trap.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalNature Plants·DateOct 5, 2020

How plants in the cabbage family look inward when sulfur is scarce

Scientists at Kyushu University found that two enzymes, BGLU28 and BGLU30, play a crucial role in breaking down glucosinolates in plants deficient in sulfur. The study reveals that these enzymes are essential for plant growth under sulfur-deprived conditions.

SourceKyushu University·JournalPlant and Cell Physiology·DateFeb 12, 2020

With nanotubes, genetic engineering in plants is easy-peasy

Researchers at UC Berkeley have developed a new technique that uses carbon nanotubes to deliver genes into plant cells, allowing for non-GMO modifications. The method is highly successful and can be used for gene editing with CRISPR-Cas9, enabling the creation of disease- or drought-resistant crops.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateFeb 25, 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.

An easier way to engineer plants

A new genetic tool has been developed by MIT researchers, allowing for easier engineering of plants that can survive drought or resist fungal infections. The technique uses nanoparticles to deliver genes into the chloroplasts of plant cells, which have the potential to revolutionize plant biology and agriculture.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateFeb 25, 2019

The transgenic key to more productive crops

A new study engineered transgenic tobacco plants with synthetic metabolic pathways to bypass photorespiration, increasing dry weight biomass by large margins. The approach has potential implications for improving crop yields globally, especially for crops like rice and wheat.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJan 3, 2019
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Pioneering biologists create a new crop through genome editing

Researchers have developed a new crop through genome editing, combining the benefits of wild plants with desirable traits. The new tomato variant boasts increased antioxidant content, larger fruit size, and improved compact growth, offering potential health benefits.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateOct 1, 2018

360 degrees, 180 seconds: Technique speeds analysis of crop traits

Researchers at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln have developed a 360-degree LiDAR technique to automatically collect millions of 3-D coordinates about plant traits. This approach improves accuracy and speed in collecting phenotypic data, which is essential for breeding crops that produce more food.

SourceUniversity of Nebraska-Lincoln·JournalSensors·DateJun 18, 2018

Scientists boost crop production by 47 percent by speeding up photorespiration

A new study led by the University of Essex engineers a model crop to overexpress a protein involved in recycling toxic chemicals, increasing yields by 27-47%. The approach may help farmers produce more food despite increasing temperature stress.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalPlant Biotechnology Journal·DateMay 31, 2018
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.

Engineers create plants that glow

Researchers at MIT have developed nanobionic plants that can produce dim light for nearly four hours using nanoparticles. This breakthrough technology aims to revolutionize indoor lighting and could one day transform trees into self-powered streetlights.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNano Letters·DateDec 13, 2017

Uncovering essential enzymes for plant growth during nitrogen starvation

Scientists have identified two key enzymes, PAH1 and PAH2, crucial for plant growth under nitrogen starvation conditions. These findings build on previous research showing that these enzymes are involved in lipid biosynthesis and membrane remodeling during phosphate depletion.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalFrontiers in Plant Science·DateNov 20, 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

How plants grow like human brains

Salk scientists discovered that mathematical rules governing plant growth are similar to brain cell connections. The team used 3D laser scanning to analyze plant architecture and found a Gaussian branch density function, suggesting universal rules of logic governing branching growth across biological systems.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJul 6, 2017

Vinegar: A cheap and simple way to help plants fight drought

Researchers discovered a biological pathway that allows plants to produce acetate when water is scarce, increasing drought tolerance. Vinegar treatment increased plant survival rates by over 70% in various crops, offering a promising, non-genetically modified solution.

SourceRIKEN·JournalNature Plants·DateJun 26, 2017
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

New plant research solves a colorful mystery

Researchers at John Innes Centre discovered how and why 'anthocyanic vacuolar inclusions' form in plants, causing vibrant colors like purple, blue, and orange-red hues. These structures help guide pollinators to flowers or animals to fruits for seed dispersal.

SourceJohn Innes Centre·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 16, 2017

Genetically modified anthocyanin-expressing citrus developed

Scientists have developed a genetically modified lime that produces anthocyanins, resulting in unique leaf pigmentation, flower coloration, and fruit pulp colors. The discovery opens up opportunities for new citrus fruits, ornamental plants, and potentially health-beneficial fresh produce.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalJournal of the American Society for Horticultural Science·DateMar 8, 2016

Transgenic sweet corn no more susceptible to Goss's wilt disease

A new study from the USDA-ARS found that transgenic sweet corn is not more susceptible to Goss's wilt disease, regardless of glyphosate treatment. In fact, glyphosate application increased yield in transgenic plants, potentially due to hormesis, a phenomenon where low doses of toxins stimulate plant growth.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalHortScience·DateFeb 17, 2016

Transgenic plants' 'die and let live' strategy dramatically increases drought resistance

Purdue University researchers engineered rice and Arabidopsis plants to overexpress PYL9 protein, which dramatically increased drought tolerance. The study found that the transgenic plants triggered the death of old leaves, conserving resources for seeds and buds, a survival strategy known as 'die and let live.'

SourcePurdue University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 1, 2016

Molecular method promises to speed development of food crops

A new study has demonstrated a molecular method that reduces the wait time to confirm transgenic work from weeks to just a few days. Digital drop PCR (ddPCR) was found to be reliable, fast and high throughput, making it a promising alternative to traditional methods.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·DateJan 26, 2016
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.

Dicamba drift affects non-target plants and pollinators

Research at Penn State found that dicamba drift reduces flowering in both alfalfa and common boneset plant species. Herbicide exposure also decreases insect visitation to damaged flowers, particularly honeybees and syrphid flies. The study suggests widespread damage from these herbicides may adversely affect pollinator communities.

SourcePenn State·JournalEnvironmental Toxicology and Chemistry·DateDec 3, 2015

A cure for vitamin B6 deficiency

Scientists at ETH Zurich have developed a genetically modified cassava variety that produces several-fold higher levels of vitamin B6, addressing the widespread deficiency in Africa. The new trait is stable under different conditions and has been confirmed to be bioavailable for human consumption.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateOct 9, 2015

Plant biosensor could help African farmers fight parasitic 'witchweed'

Researchers at the University of Toronto have created a genetically engineered plant biosensor to detect and prevent parasitic Striga infestations. The tool uses protein-based hormone receptors present within Striga to mimic plant hormones and trap the parasite, allowing for its destruction.

SourceUniversity of Toronto Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering·JournalScience·DateOct 8, 2015
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.

Root microbiome engineering improves plant growth

Researchers have found that artificially selected microbiomes can improve plant growth in genetically identical plants. This method of root microbiome engineering uses bacteria from the roots of large plants and transfers them to other plants, leading to improved growth over time.

SourceCell Press·JournalTrends in Microbiology·DateSep 25, 2015
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.

Gene may help reduce GM contamination

Researchers at the University of Guelph identified a gene that can make certain plants self-pollinate, reducing the risk of genetically modified crop contamination. The discovery could also benefit perfume-makers by allowing for more control over fragrance production.

SourceUniversity of Guelph·JournalBMC Biology·DateFeb 19, 2015

Securing future food supply for the developing world

A $10 million project will improve cassava's biomass and starch yield using metabolic engineering and genomics. The goal is to secure food supply for a growing world population, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·DateDec 19, 2014

Coming soon: Genetically edited fruit?

Researchers suggest genetically edited fruit could be more acceptable in Europe, with potential applications in vitamin A production and browning prevention. Genome editing tools like CRISPR enable precise adjustments to natural ingredients.

SourceCell Press·JournalTrends in Biotechnology·DateAug 13, 2014
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.

A plant which acclimatizes with no exterior influence

A team at the University of Geneva has generated a transgenic plant that constantly detects and responds to UV-B rays, producing high levels of antioxidants and flavonoids. This plant is equipped with an UVR8 mutated receptor, which remains active even without UV exposure.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 25, 2013

Plant protein puzzle solved

Researchers from North Carolina State University have created a 3D model of an enzyme that links glucose to cellulose, a crucial component of plant cell walls. The breakthrough could enable genetic engineering of plants and trees for improved fibers or wood strength.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 15, 2013
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Genetically modified tobacco plants produce antibodies to treat rabies

Scientists produced a monoclonal antibody in transgenic tobacco plants that neutralizes the rabies virus by preventing it from attaching to nerve endings. This new antibody opens the prospect of adequate rabies prevention for low-income families in developing countries.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateFeb 1, 2013

No more sneezing, allergen-free house plants

Researchers have genetically engineered a type of house plant to be long-lived and produce flowers without pollen. The modified plants also exhibit improved growth characteristics, such as increased branching and leaf density. This breakthrough is great news for gardeners who want to enjoy their plants for longer periods.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Plant Biology·DateAug 30, 2012

Plant growth without light control

Researchers from Japan and Karlsruhe have successfully used a synthetic photoreceptor to stimulate plant growth and development, regardless of exposure to light. This breakthrough could lead to improved agricultural practices and more efficient biomass production.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateMay 16, 2012
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Plant neighbors 's(c)ent' to protect

Plants can detect unhealthy neighbors through odor perception, inducing resistance to disease and pests. A new study found that exposure duration and concentration of odor compounds significantly impact this process.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of Chemical Ecology·DateMar 5, 2012

Environs prompt advantageous gene mutations as plants grow; changes passed to progeny

A study by Christopher A. Cullis found that the environment influences helpful mutations in plants, even within a single generation. The experiment showed each strand of flax responded differently to its grown conditions, and the LIS-1 sequence appeared in response to nutrient deficiencies.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalInternational Journal of Genetics and Molecular Biology·DateJul 1, 2011

Viruses teach researchers how to protect corn from fungal infection

Researchers at the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center developed a corn variety resistant to fungal infection using a naturally found killer protein made by a virus. The single gene approach offers hope for effective solutions to control other pathogenic fungi and reduce crop losses.

SourceDonald Danforth Plant Science Center·JournalPlant Biotechnology Journal·DateMar 8, 2011

Multiple approaches necessary to tackle world's food problems

To solve the world's food problems, agriculture needs to use resources more efficiently by integrating various sectors and adopting innovative methods. Researchers are exploring ways to grow crops in areas that were previously unused, such as using wastewater to irrigate and fertilize fruit and vegetables.

SourcePenn State·DateFeb 18, 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.

News tips from a special issue of the International Journal of Plant Sciences

Research on self-fertilization reveals that it may not always be an evolutionary advantage but can evolve as a side-effect of drought-avoiding life cycles. Flower shape evolution is also influenced by pollinator preferences, with different shapes preferred by different types of insects.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalInternational Journal of Plant Sciences·DateNov 10, 2010

MIT chemists engineer plants to produce new drugs

Researchers at MIT have genetically engineered periwinkle plants to produce unnatural variants of their usual alkaloid products, which could lead to more effective cancer treatments. The team successfully attached halogens to vinblastine precursors using bacterial genes, expanding the plant's pharmaceutical repertoire.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateNov 3, 2010

Genetically altered trees, plants could help counter global warming

Researchers propose strategies to increase plant efficiency in absorbing light, altering root carbon conversion, and boosting bioenergy crops to combat climate change. The use of genetically engineered plants for carbon sequestration is part of a broader effort to enhance natural biological processes.

SourceAmerican Institute of Biological Sciences·JournalBioScience·DateOct 1, 2010

New VARI findings next step to growing drought-resistant plants

Researchers at Van Andel Research Institute have identified synthetic compounds that can mimic the effects of plant hormone abscisic acid, helping plants retain water during drought. These findings could lead to sprays that use a plant's natural defenses to improve drought tolerance and combat global food shortages.

SourceVan Andel Research Institute·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateSep 28, 2010
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Changing flowering times protect tobacco plants against insect herbivory

Scientists discovered that tobacco plants alter their flower opening time in response to insect herbivory, reducing scent emission and attracting hummingbirds as an alternative pollinator. This adaptation helps protect the plant from harm while still allowing for fertilization and reproduction.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJan 21, 2010

Engineered tobacco plants have more potential as a biofuel

Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University have successfully engineered tobacco plants to produce more oil in their leaves, which can be used as a sustainable biofuel. The modified plants yielded up to 20-fold more oil than normal tobacco plant leaves, paving the way for a new energy source.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalPlant Biotechnology Journal·DateDec 30, 2009
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Modified crops reveal hidden cost of resistance

Researchers found genetically modified squash are more susceptible to bacterial wilt disease due to increased feeding by cucumber beetles. The study suggests that the fitness advantage of virus-resistant crops comes at a price, with unintended consequences for biodiversity.

SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 26, 2009

Plants on steroids: Key missing link discovered

Scientists have identified a complete signaling pathway for plant brassinosteroid hormones, a discovery that could lead to genetic engineering of crops with higher yields and improve understanding of human diseases like cancer and diabetes. The study shares similarities with animal steroids, but functions differently at the cellular le...

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateSep 8, 2009