Scientists have developed a method to accelerate plant regeneration: chemical treatment reduces the protective response of flora and directs resources to repair damaged areas, which can increase the resilience of crops to climate change.
The journal Development Cell has published a study in which scientists present a new method for stimulating plant regeneration. Chemical treatment temporarily reduces the protective response and directs the plant’s energy towards recovery, which significantly speeds up the regeneration process.
Plants usually respond to damage in two ways: either by defending themselves by producing toxins or by regrowing damaged areas. Analysis of the DNA of Tal’s thale cress and corn showed that proteins that work on the principle of glutamate receptors activate a defence mechanism in response to injury by allowing calcium to enter the cells. However, a team of researchers led by New York University professor Kenneth Birnbaum found that if calcium transfer is chemically blocked, plants spend fewer resources on defence and recover more quickly.
According to the scientists, this technology could increase the resilience of agricultural crops to climate change. This is particularly relevant for corn and sugar cane, which are already genetically modified. The researchers believe that chemical treatment could further enhance their endurance.
