How plants keep viruses from passing to their progeny
Scientists have learned how plants keep viruses from being passed to their offspring, a finding that could ensure healthier crops. The discovery could also help reduce the transmission of diseases from mothers to human children......»»
Discovery of key protein complex shows evolution and adaptability of photosynthetic organisms
A team of researchers has revealed the structure of a modified and evolved version of Photosystem I (PS I), a key protein complex used by plants and cyanobacteria to convert sunlight into chemical energy. This discovery sheds light on the evolution a.....»»
Scientists identify mutation that could facilitate H5N1 bird flu virus infection and potential transmission in humans
Avian influenza viruses typically require several mutations to adapt and spread among humans, but what happens when just one change can increase the risk of becoming a pandemic virus?.....»»
Engineered enzymes may help plants adapt to higher temperatures
As global temperatures rise, it's imperative that plants can adapt to new and changing conditions. Michigan State University researchers from the Walker lab are looking at ways to give plants an assist. More specifically, their research aims to help.....»»
The dual role of insects in parasitic plant reproduction solves a long-standing botanical mystery
In the dark and moist understories of the subtropical forests of Shimoshima Island in Japan grow parasitic plants that feed on the roots of other plants. They are called Balanophora, and for over a century, the mechanism of their seed dispersal has r.....»»
Study finds soil microbes affect flowers" ability to attract bees
New research reveals that certain soil microbes can help plants grow bigger flowers, therefore attracting more bees. The findings, which are published in New Phytologist, suggest that studying roots' relationships with microbes can help scientists pr.....»»
Simulated outbreaks demonstrate how evolutionary approaches can estimate the speed of viral spread
Evaluating the speed at which viruses spread and transmit across host populations is critical to mitigating disease outbreaks. A study published December 3 in PLOS Biology by Simon Dellicour at the University of Brussels (ULB), Belgium, and colleague.....»»
Q&A: What fossils reveal about ancient Australian forests and fire
Australia's forest ecosystems, renowned for their extraordinary diversity of rare plants and animals, also play a vital role in mitigating climate change by absorbing and storing carbon. However, fossils from these ancient forests are reshaping the u.....»»
Workers strike as Volkswagen plans to close German factories
VW wants to close three plants in Germany, causing the largest walkout since 2018. Volkswagen workers in Germany have gone on strike today in the largest industrial action taken a.....»»
Hidden DNA in plants reveals secrets of photosynthesis
Scientists have uncovered genetic variation in the unexplored DNA of the photosynthetic and energy factories of Arabidopsis plants, which plays a crucial role in the efficiency of photosynthesis in plants. These insights—published Nov. 27 in the Pr.....»»
Peroxisomal protein boosts plant immunity to thrive under environmental stress
Salicylic acid is vital for protecting plants from pathogens, but its synthesis remains unclear. A team of Shinshu University researchers has discovered that the protein HSR201 is key to its production. They found that HSR201 localizes to specific or.....»»
Exploring the ecological role of deep-sea viruses
The significance of deep-sea virology and its impact on global climate and biogeochemical structures is not unknown, though its importance might be understated......»»
Arizona chip plants could make 2nm chips from 2028, claims TSMC
Things haven’t exactly been going to plan with TSMC’s Arizona chip plants, but the company is claiming that the second plant could be making 2nm chips in the US as early as 2028. Previously announced plans talked only of 3nm chips by this date......»»
Researchers highlight cultural importance of plants for people in Borneo
Borneo's nature is rich in unique plant life, which is central to the culture and survival of many of its people. This is revealed in a new biocultural database developed by researchers at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), showin.....»»
Stomata study provides new insights in plant response to high temperatures and drought
We are increasingly confronted with the impacts of climate change, with failed harvests being only one example. Addressing these challenges requires multifaceted approaches, including making plants more resilient......»»
Genetic factors in woodland strawberries promote cold tolerance
Climate change is shifting the seasons, pushing crop plants to their limits. For example, sudden frost episodes in late spring can be detrimental to strawberries in the bed. Wild species, on the other hand, are often more resilient......»»
Chemical replacement of TNT explosive more harmful to plants, study shows
The increased use of a chemical compound to replace TNT in explosive devices has a damaging and long lasting effect on plants, new research has shown......»»
Researchers identify two fungal enzymes that hijack the immune system of plants to colonize roots
In nature, plant roots are always colonized by fungi. This interaction can be either mutualistic, benefiting both the plant and the fungus, or pathogenic, where the fungus harms the host plant. A research group led by Professor Dr. Alga Zuccaro at th.....»»
Fossilized dung reveals clues to dinosaur success story
In an international collaboration, researchers at Uppsala University have been able to identify undigested food remains, plants and prey in the fossilized feces of dinosaurs. These analyses of hundreds of samples provide clues about the role dinosaur.....»»
Same plant, different tactic: Habitat determines response to climate, thale cress study finds
Plants need light to grow, but too much light can induce damage to the photosynthetic complex known as photosystem II. It is known that plants adapted to growing under full sun repair this light-induced damage more. But this repair activity slows dow.....»»
Scientists successfully use harmless viruses to investigate the nervous system in frogs
Virus. When you hear the word, you probably shudder. But not all viruses are bad or cause disease. Some are even used for therapeutic applications or vaccination. In basic research, they are often employed to infect certain cells, genetically modify.....»»