Research

Research

Root-to-shoot mobile mRNA enhances chilling tolerance in grafted cucumbers — A new molecular mechanism in plant communication

A Nature Communications study reveals that pumpkin-derived mRNA “CmoKARI1” travels from roots to shoots in grafted cucumbers, enhancing chilling tolerance via JA-Ile biosynthesis. Learn how this discovery redefines grafting and opens new Plant Hack strategies for crop breeding.
Research

Rainwash DNA | How Raindrops Reveal the Hidden Canopy and Global Biodiversity

Rainwash DNA uses rainfall to uncover tropical forest canopy biodiversity. By analyzing environmental DNA carried by raindrops, researchers reveal hidden ecosystems, opening new pathways for conservation, climate studies, and Plant Hack innovations.
Research

Boosting Nitrogen Efficiency in Japonica Rice — OsNLP4 lifts yield while lowering environmental impact

Nature Communications(2025)のOsNLP4研究を詳解。インディカ型アレル導入でジャポニカの収量・NUEが12〜25%改善。窒素と鉄の併用施肥で30〜32%へ。持続可能農業と環境負荷低減の新しい道筋を解説。
Research

Are Canadian Rapeseed, Wheat, and Peas Truly Low-Carbon? A New Study Challenges the “Local = Low Emissions” Assumption

Based on a Nature Food study (2025/08/05), this article explains why Canadian rapeseed, wheat, and peas have significantly lower carbon footprints than international competitors. Soil carbon and nitrous oxide are key factors, showing that even with long-distance shipping, Canada often outperforms local production.
Research

Projected 25% Dulling of Alpine Autumn Foliage Colors|The Science Linking Earlier Springs and Autumn Color Brightness

A new study predicts that alpine autumn foliage in Japan could lose up to 25% of its brightness due to climate change. Discover the science connecting earlier springs to fading autumn colors.
Research

Liberica Coffee: The “Third Path” Revealed—Reclassification Unveils Three Distinct Species

A new study reveals Liberica coffee is three distinct species, reshaping flavor diversity, breeding strategies, and conservation priorities.
Research

Barley’s NAC Genes Pave the Way for Salt Stress Resilience — Evolution and Breeding Strategies Revealed by Pan-Genome Analysis

Pan-genome analysis of 20 barley lines uncovers the evolution, diversity, and expression patterns of NAC genes, highlighting their potential in breeding salt- and drought-tolerant crops for future food security.
Research

The Ballistic Secrets of the Squirting Cucumber—How Ecballium elaterium Launches Seeds 12 Meters

The Mediterranean squirting cucumber explosively launches its seeds at 10 m/s. Discover the 53° launch angle, six‑row seed magazine, and rapid‑curing cellulose glue revealed by 3D µCT and high‑speed imaging—plant biomechanics explained in 10 minutes.
Research

“Mostly Trash, Occasionally Treasure”—Making Sense of Plant eccDNA

Most eccDNA is junk, but some boosts gene copies or logs TE activity. A new Arabidopsis atlas maps full-length eccDNA and its epigenetic control.
Research

Stomata Are “Two-Sided” by Design — How the Division of Labor Between Light-Activated Potassium Channels Saves Water

Leaf stomata use different K⁺ channels on upper vs. lower surfaces. Learn how KAT1 and AKT1 balance light responses, CO₂ uptake, and water‑use efficiency.