Question

Breakthrough Gene Enhances Photosynthesis and Increases Plant Height

A team of researchers has identified a naturally occurring gene in poplar trees that enhances photosynthesis and promotes significant plant growth. Named Booster, this gene is composed of DNA from two organisms that are associated with the tree, as well as a protein called Rubisco, which plays a crucial role in the process of photosynthesis. The discovery of this gene could have major implications for improving plant growth and boosting agricultural productivity.

Answer 1

The BOOSTER gene in poplar trees boosts photosynthesis and biomass, with potential applications for improving crop yields.

A team of researchers has discovered the BOOSTER gene in poplar trees, which enhances photosynthesis and promotes greater biomass production, offering promising applications for improving crop yields. This discovery was made by scientists at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and Oak Ridge National Laboratory.

Chloroplasts, where photosynthesis occurs, house the Rubisco protein, which is responsible for capturing CO2 from the atmosphere. Boosting Rubisco content has long been a goal for improving crop yield and CO2 absorption. The BOOSTER gene, unique to poplar trees, helps achieve this by increasing Rubisco levels, thus enhancing photosynthetic activity.

The team analyzed approximately 1,000 poplar trees and identified the BOOSTER gene through a genome-wide association study (GWAS). This gene was found to increase tree height by up to 37% in field conditions and improve biomass production. Additionally, inserting the BOOSTER gene into Arabidopsis (thale cress) also resulted in increased biomass and seed production, demonstrating its potential applicability in other crops.

While the research is still in early stages, with further studies required to validate results on a larger scale, the findings offer a significant step toward improving crop productivity. Future research will focus on testing the BOOSTER gene in various plants and exploring other genes identified in the study for their potential in crop enhancement.