Improve Biodiversity And Cost By Increasing The Longevity Of Seeds Using Genetic Engineering

Researchers have discovered a new way of improving the longevity of plant seeds using genetic engineering. The key is over-expression of the ATHB25 gene. This gene encodes a protein that regulates gene expression, producing a new mutant that gives the seed new properties. Researchers have proven that this mutant has more gibberellin -the hormone that promotes plant growth-, which means the seed coat is reinforced as well. This mechanism is new, as tolerance to stresses such as aging has always been associated with another hormone, abscisic acid, which regulates defenses based on proteins and small protective molecules, instead of producing the growth of structures like gibberellin does. read more

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