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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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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