Articles tagged with Transgenic Plants
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...
Researchers restored a maize root signal that attracts insect-killing nematodes to control the Western corn rootworm, a significant pest in the US. This approach enhances plant resistance and reduces the use of synthetic insecticides.
The US EPA has awarded a grant to investigate how food allergies are initiated, with potential breakthroughs in predicting allergic reactions to genetically engineered foods. The study aims to identify key immune factors leading to food allergies, affecting approximately 3 million children in the US.
Scientists successfully produced biologically-active interleukin-10 in genetically modified tobacco plants, offering a potential new treatment for autoimmune diseases. The transgenic plants can produce the active cytokine at high levels without lengthy extraction and purification processes.
Researchers have developed a genetic modification that modifies the connections in lignin, making it easier to break down and access cellulose for ethanol production. The modified plants show increased sugar yields without compromising plant strength or lignin content.
A novel mist bioreactor system enables the efficient production of murine interleukin-12 in genetically modified tobacco plants. This breakthrough could lead to the creation of new therapies for diseases such as Crohn's, psoriasis, and rheumatoid arthritis.
Researchers found that flowers with nicotine and benzyl acetone attract pollinators, increasing seed production. Plants with these chemicals had higher cross-pollination rates than those without, optimizing outcrossing.
A broad collaboration has produced a first draft of the papaya genome, offering insights into its evolutionary path and genetic changes that make it resistant to the papaya ringspot virus. The findings indicate that papaya diverged from Arabidopsis 72 million years ago, taking a different evolutionary path.
Researchers at Zhejiang University developed a technology to create selectively terminable transgenic rice plants using RNAi cassette. This innovation allows for controlled cultivation and reduces the risk of transgene spreading, making it ideal for bioreactors and industrial applications.
Researchers are using transgenic poplars to remove pollutants from a contaminated site in north-central Indiana. The trees have been shown to absorb and break down contaminants such as trichloroethylene, making them a promising solution for phytoremediation.
Cornell researchers have proven the polymer trap model theory of sugar transport in plants, which could lead to increased photosynthetic rates and carbon dioxide intake. The study uses genetic engineering to silence genes involved in sucrose polymerization, resulting in a buildup of sugars in leaves.
Rice scientists have successfully grown hairy roots for 4-and-a-half years, a breakthrough that could lead to mass production of medicines like vincristine and vinblastine. The transgenic roots contain genes from both the host plant and bacteria, offering a stable alternative to traditional cell cultures.
Researchers create artificial plant chromosomes from small rings of naturally occurring plant DNA, allowing for the introduction of multiple genes at once. The technology enables more consistent and controlled expression, potentially increasing agricultural productivity and improving biofuel production.
Researchers at the University of Washington have developed genetically engineered poplar plants capable of taking up to 91% of trichloroethylene, a common groundwater contaminant. The transgenic plants can break down pollutants into harmless byproducts at rates 100 times faster than unaltered plants.
Researchers have cloned a novel aluminum-tolerant gene in sorghum, providing insights into how specialized proteins can boost aluminum tolerance in crops. The new genetically-engineered sorghum lines are expected to increase food production on marginal soils in developing countries.
A genetically modified maize variety resistant to the severe maize streak virus has been created using pathogen-derived resistance, delaying symptom development and increasing survival rates. The research aims to alleviate Africa's food shortages and famine by providing a disease-resistant crop for local farmers.
Scientists found that isoprene emission from plants protects against heat stress and improves photosynthesis efficiency. The study used genetic engineering techniques to reduce isoprene emission in transgenic Grey poplar trees, which showed increased tolerance to heat shock.
Researchers at Oregon State University have successfully manipulated the growth in height of trees using genetic modification, creating miniature trees that can range from a few inches to over 50 feet tall. The findings offer potential for new products in the ornamental and nursery industries, but regulatory hurdles must be overcome.
Researchers at Rutgers University have discovered a new approach to contain genes in genetically modified (GM) crops by implanting them into plastids, minimizing the risk of escape. This innovation has the potential to alleviate concerns about 'foreign genes' contaminating wild species and ecosystems.
Cornell researchers identified a genetic mutation in orange cauliflower that allows it to hold more beta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A. This finding may lead to more nutritious staple crops by increasing their ability to store beta-carotene.
A new understanding of plant calcium management could lead to genetically engineering plants to resist acid rain's damage. Plants use molecular sensors to detect and regulate calcium levels, which is crucial for structural rigidity and growth.
Researchers create transgenic Arabidopsis plants by introducing genes into bacteria Agrobacterium, which then infect the plant cells. This method allows scientists to identify and characterize specific gene functions in plants. The technique enables the development of pest-resistant crops, vitamin-enriched foods, and more.
Scientists discover GAL83 gene that allows plants to store carbon in roots, reducing damage from herbivore attacks. This adaptation enables plants to withstand voracious insects and extend seed production period.
Researchers have made significant breakthroughs in understanding plant metal uptake, distribution, and regulation. The discovery of new IRT1 alleles enables plants to take up iron while resisting cadmium contamination. This could lead to increased crop yields, improved human nutrition, and reduced disease susceptibility.
Researchers at Ohio State University have genetically modified cassava plants to produce larger, starch-rich roots, which could help alleviate hunger in Africa. The modified plants were found to produce up to 2.6 times larger roots and a third more leaves than regular cassava plants.
A new clean-up strategy using phytoremediation has been discovered, allowing plants to transport environmental arsenic from roots to shoots. This breakthrough could help clean up thousands of sites worldwide where arsenic poses serious health risks.
A study compared genetically modified Desirée potatoes with five conventional varieties, revealing a surprising range of variation in substance content. The analyses found that the genetically modified lines exhibited similar variation to the conventional varieties, except for higher inulin polysaccharide content.
MicroRNAs play a crucial role in regulating plant development by controlling gene expression related to the auxin response pathway. Studies show that microRNA-mediated regulation of genes like ARF17 and NAC1 is essential for normal plant growth, affecting root and shoot development.
A study found that male mouse fetuses exposed to estrogenic chemicals developed more ducts in their prostate and narrowed urethras, raising concerns for human health. The researchers used low doses of ethinylestradiol and bisphenol A, which are commonly found in oral contraceptives and plastics.
Researchers have developed genetically modified plants that produce biological detergents to combat hydrophobic pollutants, including PCBs and dioxins. These 'green Mr. Clean' plants use enzymes to secrete detergents into the soil, making them effective in phytoremediation, a cost-effective alternative to traditional remediation methods.
Researchers found that transgenic Indian mustard plants absorbed two to four times more selenium from contaminated soil than their wild-type counterparts, outperforming them in the field trial. The study suggests using phytoremediation with these plants could be a viable alternative for cleaning up polluted soil at a lower cost.
Researchers produced genetically modified linseed plants that accumulate significant levels of very long chain poly-unsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) in seed, improving human nutrition. The production of these oils in plants may reduce unsustainable pressures on fisheries and provide a sustainable alternative for consumers.
Researchers have identified a genetic component involved in the self-incompatibility response of plants. The discovery sheds light on how plants prevent self-pollination and could lead to more efficient methods for producing hybrid seeds, such as hand emasculation being replaced by transgenic approach.
A new report from Ohio State University recommends prioritizing the risks and benefits of genetically engineered organisms (GEOs) before release. The panel suggests developing regulations based on scientific findings and implementing measures to prevent unwanted side effects.
Purdue University researchers have engineered plants to produce a non-toxic form of selenium called methylselenocysteine, which has shown promise in reducing cancer risk in animal models. The plants can also accumulate high levels of selenium, potentially providing a natural source for nutritional supplements and environmental cleanup.
Researchers found that a genetically modified wheat transgene in sunflowers has little effect on wild relatives, suggesting a glacial pace of gene movement. The study suggests examining each transgene and crop on a case-by-case basis to determine potential ecological impacts.
A policy report by Oregon State University professor Steven Strauss argues that government regulations on genetic engineering are stifling research and favoring large corporations. The report suggests reducing regulations for
Penn State scientists are developing genetically engineered plants that can detect and signal harmful chemical or biological agents. These 'sentinel plants' could be used to warn of bioterrorism threats, locate land mines, and even monitor environmental conditions in agriculture.
Research finds that genes manage related traits in plant parts, like flowers, to optimize reproduction and survival. A single genetic mechanism regulates the growth of flower parts in correlation, enabling precise construction and successful pollination.
Cornell researchers introduce a trehalose-enhancement gene into Indica rice varieties, demonstrating stress tolerance and increased productivity. The transgenic plants also exhibit improved photosynthesis and nutrient utilization, making them more robust under various environmental stresses.
Researchers created a new strategy to remove arsenic from soil by inserting genes from the common bacterium Escherichia coli into a member of the mustard family, Arabidopsis. This enables the plant to tolerate arsenic and transport it to its leaves in a form that is less biologically available.
A breakthrough in genetic engineering has enabled scientists to transform loblolly pine trees with improved drought tolerance and disease resistance. The study demonstrates the use of a shoot-based transformation method, which can accelerate the improvement of this important species.
Researchers have identified HsfA1 as a master regulator of the tomato heat stress response, playing a crucial role in protecting plants from high temperatures. Transgenic tomatoes with over-expressed HsfA1 showed increased resistance to heat stress, while those deficient in HsfA1 were more susceptible.
Research in Italy has successfully engineered seedless eggplants using genetic modification, producing 30-35% more fruit than conventional varieties. The genetically modified eggplants have improved productivity, reduced cultivation costs, and can thrive in cooler conditions.
Researchers discovered gene silencing can interrupt tumor formation in crown gall disease, producing over a 90% reduction in gall formation among genetically engineered plants. The technique has potential applications for disease-resistant rootstocks and non-transgenic crops.
Researchers have discovered how plants' self-incompatibility works on a molecular level, revealing highly specific lock-and-key interactions between pollen and stigma. This breakthrough could enable genetic engineers to short-circuit reproduction and increase genetic variability in crops like tomatoes and rice.
A team of scientists has genetically engineered a salt-tolerant tomato plant that can grow in irrigation water with high salt concentrations. The plant produces a naturally occurring protein that removes salt from the soil, allowing it to maintain quality and productivity.
Researchers are creating new strains of rice plants with insect-killing proteins, eliminating the need for insecticides. The genes are designed to escape gene silencing mechanisms, allowing them to produce proteins in plant roots that prevent water weevils from eating the roots.
A recent CSIRO Australia trial found genetically modified lupins increased wool growth by eight percent and live weight gain by seven percent in Merino sheep. The modified protein stimulates the production of sulfur amino acids, essential for growth, making it a valuable boost to Australian wool production.
The Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center is developing a new strategy for obtaining plants with desirable genetic mutations using the TILLING method. This approach allows for rapid and large-scale analysis of mutations without introducing genetically modified material.
Biochemist Joe Ogas' research on the PICKLE gene reveals a biochemical switch that could help understand cancer and develop new oil crops. Plants with mutated genes produce roots storing oils like seeds do, but also exhibit pickle-like swellings.
Researchers at Purdue University have discovered that snapdragons release more scent during the day when bees are active, and that this relationship between the flower and bee is crucial for pollination. The study also found that a genetic regulatory mechanism controls the production of floral scents in different plant species.
Selected studies focus on administering oral vaccines through edible transgenic plants, modifying foods to boost healthful content of fatty acids and antioxidant values, and introducing synthetic storage protein genes into sweet potatoes. Researchers also discuss a process to raise the quality and purity of plant-based herbal medicines.
Cooperative Extension specialists from the University of Delaware discussed the scope of issues surrounding genetically modified foods, including science, ethics, and production. They addressed concerns about resistance to GMOs in European Common Market and debated how to advise farmers on planting GMO crops for next year's harvest.
A University of Toronto research team has isolated a gene that allows plants to grow in highly saline conditions. The gene encodes a transport protein called Na+/H+ antiport, which prevents sodium ions from harming the cell and draws water into the plant.
Researchers isolated a gene that enables plants to absorb iron from the soil. The finding has significant implications for addressing global malnutrition and food security. By understanding how plants process iron, scientists can develop more efficient ways to fortify crops with this essential nutrient.
Researchers at Virginia Tech successfully cultivated pharmaceutical-producing tobacco, with the goal of producing human proteins for use in pharmaceuticals. The high-density plant cultivation method produced encouraging data and demonstrated flexibility in tobacco varieties.
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill scientists have discovered that over-expressing a special gene in tobacco plants can manipulate the size of individual cells, resulting in smaller plant crops more resistant to dry or wet conditions. This breakthrough could lead to controlled wood cell sizes for various applications.
Researcher Joy Bergelson finds that genetically engineered plants can outcross with wild relatives at a higher rate than previously thought, potentially leading to the creation of super-weeds. This could lead to increased pesticide use and crop competition for water and nutrients.
Researchers at Purdue University have successfully modified yeast to ferment both glucose and xylose from plant matter, producing more ethanol from the same amount of material. This breakthrough could make ethanol production cheaper and more sustainable.