Turned breathing into weapons: How Wasabi made his unique protection mechanism

The new scientific discovery is based on the FAMA gene, a well -known regulator of the development of the stoma. FAMA directs differentiation of protective cells that surround each tired time and control its discovery and closure. In focus, technology appeared its Telegram channel.

Subscribe to not miss the most info and interesting news from the world of science! Scientists have found that FAMA also plays a key role in the formation of myrosin cells-specialized cells that produce myrosinase, an enzyme that plays an important role in the protective system of the plant. When herbivores feed on the plant, myosina interacts with glucosinolates and produces toxic compounds that scare away predators.

By delving into this genetic interaction, the researchers discovered a gene that was named Wasabi Maker (WSB), which is directly activated by FAMA. WSB serves as the most important trigger for the development of myrosins; Plants devoid of this gene are not able to form these most important protective cells.

This find emphasizes how one genetic path can affect both the ability of the plant to breathe and its ability to defend itself, it is said in their study, published in the journal Nature Plants. Such genetic versatility not only sheds light on the evolutionary history of plant protective mechanisms, but also opens potential for agricultural innovations, the authors believe.

By understanding and potentially manipulating these genetic pathways, scientists seek to increase the resistance of crops to pests, while maintaining optimal functions of growth and gas exchange. In fact, the discovery that the genes that regulate such important physiological processes as breathing have been re -profiled for protection emphasizes the amazing adaptability of plants.

This knowledge not only enriches our understanding of plant biology, but also open the way to the creation of crops that will be productive and resistant to the face of changing climate and evolutionary threats by herbivores. Earlier, focus wrote about crossing pig genes with beans. Changing soybean soybeans for the production of pig protein, the company produced a product rich, in fact a real, pork protein that erases the boundaries between the plant and meat.