Genetics Studies

Spatial and temporal characterization of the rich fraction of plastid DNA present in the nuclear genome of Moringa oleifera reveals unanticipated complexity in NUPTs´ formation.

Scientists find that small fragments of plastid DNA are still being copied and moved to the nuclear genome, even after DNA transfer. The exact mechanisms are unclear, with limited research on specific species and plastid DNA.

Marczuk-Rojas JP et al (2024).
BMC Genomics.
PubMed:
38225585

Comparative physiological and transcriptome analysis provide insights into the inhibitory effect of osthole on Penicillium choerospondiatis.

Osthole, a compound from Cnidium monnieri, shows promise as a natural antifungal agent to control blue mold in Phyllanthus emblica fruit by inhibiting mold growth and inducing autophagy in fungal cells.

Lai D et al (2024).
Pestic Biochem Physiol.
PubMed:
38225092

Complete chloroplast genome sequence of Pinus tabuliformis var. henryi (Mast.) C.T.Kuan 1983 (Pinaceae).

Scientists sequenced the chloroplast genome of a rare subtropical pine. The genome was 119,634 base pairs long and contained 114 genes. This study provides new data for taxonomic and phylogenetic studies of Pinus.

Wang X et al (2024).
Mitochondrial DNA B Resour.
PubMed:
38222979

Creating saponin-free yellow pea seeds by CRISPR/Cas9-enabled mutagenesis on β-amyrin synthase.

Scientists use CRISPR/Cas9 to edit a gene in pea seeds, resulting in a 99.8% reduction in bitter compounds. Protein levels increase while starch decreases. Potential for improving pea cultivars using this technique is promising but more research is needed for real-world applications.

Hodgins CL et al (2024).
Plant Direct.
PubMed:
38222934