Category

Plant Science

Image credit: The data of the “tree of life” for flowering plants will contribute to identifying new species, refining plant classification, uncovering new medicinal compounds, and conserving plants in the face of climate change and biodiversity loss. | Illustration for the Nature publication “Phylogenomics and the rise of the angiosperms”

“Tree of Life” for flowering plants

By | News, Plant Science

Bioscientists contribute to a global study, creating a comprehensive “tree of life” for flowering plants, including crucial insights into the evolution of cruciferous plants. Drawing from extensive botanical collections and genetic analyses, researchers shed light on plant origins and relationships, aiding conservation efforts amidst climate change.

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Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

Pea plants that flower for longer

By | News, Plant Science

Researchers have pinpointed a gene, FUL, governing flower and fruit production in legumes, potentially revolutionizing agriculture. By extending the reproductive phase in peas, chickpeas, lentils, and beans, using FUL as a biotechnological tool, yields could double without altering nutritional quality. Traditional mutation methods or CRISPR gene editing offer promising avenues for application, offering hope for sustainable crop improvement amid climate challenges.

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Image credit:  Illustration of plant-fungal interactions by Thai Dao

An Inside Look at How Plants and Mycorrhizal Fungi Cooperate

By | Agriculture, News, Plant Science

Researchers collaborated on a study investigating the symbiotic relationship between legume plants and mycorrhizal fungi, crucial for nutrient exchange. Using advanced sequencing techniques, they identified key genes facilitating this interaction, offering insights for genetic engineering and potential biofuel crop optimization. Future studies aim to expand this research to other plant species.

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Division orientation defined by directional cell expansion. Credit: Developmental Cell (2024). DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2024.03.009

Wounded plants: how they coordinate their healing

By | News, Plant Science

In a new study, scientists unraveled the mystery behind how wounded plants coordinate their healing. By investigating the role of the hormone Auxin and pressure changes, they discovered the intricate cellular mechanisms guiding plant regeneration. This understanding sheds light on how plants adapt and survive in challenging environments.

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