Sex in plants can be befuddling. Most species are hermaphrodites, expressing both male and female gametes in one individual. But some, including shrub willow Salix purpurea, employ the evolutionary strategy we are far more ...
Biotechnology
Apr 20, 2020
0
84
Researchers are interested in genetically modifying trees for a variety of applications, from biofuels to paper production. They also want to steer clear of modifications with unintended consequences. These consequences can ...
Molecular & Computational biology
Apr 10, 2020
3
95
To disarm toxic substances, many organisms including humans possess enzymes called flavin-containing monooxygenases (FMOs). Despite their importance, the structure of the enzymes has not been resolved, as the protein is too ...
Evolution
Dec 23, 2019
0
133
Chocolate-producing cacao trees that are resistant to a major pathogen were identified by an international team of plant geneticists. The findings point the way for plant breeders to develop trees that are tolerant of the ...
Plants & Animals
Dec 6, 2019
0
123
New research has identified the genetic basis of resistance to ash dieback in UK trees, opening up new avenues for conservation.
Ecology
Nov 18, 2019
0
1235
In order to meet the demands of growing human populations, agricultural production must double within the next 30 years. Yet the health of today's crops and the promise of their yield face a rising slate of threats—from ...
Plants & Animals
Sep 19, 2019
0
55
While studying the genes in poplar trees that control callus formation, scientists at Oak Ridge National Laboratory have uncovered genetic networks at the root of tumor formation in several human cancers.
Biotechnology
Feb 5, 2019
0
100
Around 4 billion years ago there lived a microbe called LUCA: the Last Universal Common Ancestor. There is evidence that it could have lived a somewhat 'alien' lifestyle, hidden away deep underground in iron-sulfur rich hydrothermal ...
Evolution
Dec 18, 2018
38
464
The largest field-based study of genetically modified forest trees ever conducted has demonstrated that genetic engineering can prevent new seedlings from establishing.
Biotechnology
Aug 3, 2018
0
93
Forests of silver birch stretch across Europe, and they are a wonder to behold: stands of slender, white-barked trees sheltering vast swathes of earth.
Biotechnology
May 8, 2017
0
197
