New CRISPR method edits crops without technically making them GMOs

CRISPR-Cas9 gene-editing is one of the most powerful tools available to modern science, but genetically-modified organisms (GMOs) in food are subject to some tight regulations. Now, researchers at North Carolina State University have created a new vers… Continue reading New CRISPR method edits crops without technically making them GMOs

New technique makes thousands of semi-synthetic photosynthesis cells

Photosynthesis is one of nature’s most useful chemical reactions, so it’s not surprising that scientists often try to mimic it. Now, researchers from the Max Planck Institute have developed a new way to make hybrid synthetic living cells that can use p… Continue reading New technique makes thousands of semi-synthetic photosynthesis cells

Plant virus nanoparticles pitched as treatment for autoimmune diseases

Viruses are getting a pretty bad rap lately, but they’re not always our enemy. In a new study led by the University of Verona, researchers have used plant viruses to make new nanoparticles that show promise in mice for treating autoimmune diseases like… Continue reading Plant virus nanoparticles pitched as treatment for autoimmune diseases

Stressed-out plants pass down “memories” to make offspring stronger

Like any good parent, it turns out that plants can use their own experience to teach their offspring about how to overcome tough times. Geneticists at Penn State University have manipulated the expression of one gene in a plant that makes them more res… Continue reading Stressed-out plants pass down “memories” to make offspring stronger

Scientists use mushroom DNA to produce permanently-glowing plants

While bioluminescent mushrooms certainly are fascinating, getting the things to grow in your home or garden can be challenging. Thanks to a new study, however, it may soon be possible to buy glowing versions of otherwise-conventional easily grown plant… Continue reading Scientists use mushroom DNA to produce permanently-glowing plants

MIT’s new microneedle patch is made just for plants

When it comes to safer, less painful, slow-release alternatives to the hypodermic injection of medications, “microneedle patches” show a lot of promise. Now, MIT scientists have adapted the technology for use on plants.Continue ReadingCategory: Science… Continue reading MIT’s new microneedle patch is made just for plants

Study shows why trees won’t benefit much from extra CO2 in the air

The amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere is increasing steadily, having recently reached the highest concentration in human history. While that’s undoubtedly bad news for the planet, one argued silver lining is that plants are better off due to m… Continue reading Study shows why trees won’t benefit much from extra CO2 in the air

Hearing Plants Giggle Is Just As Creepy As You Think

While best known for Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Roald Dahl wrote quite a few similarly oddball stories in his time. One of them, The Sound Machine, is about a device that allowed the user to hear the anguished screams of trees as they were cut down. Sounds …read more

Continue reading Hearing Plants Giggle Is Just As Creepy As You Think

Eco-friendly “releasable” superglue is made from plants

Although so-called superglues can be quite useful, they’re typically made from harsh chemicals, plus it’s very difficult to “unstick” them once they’ve set. Now, however, scientists have created a plant-based superglue that can easily be removed when n… Continue reading Eco-friendly “releasable” superglue is made from plants