Research

Grape Breeding is Like Managing an Inheritance: The Hidden Impacts of Crossbreeding, Selfing, and Clonal Propagation

How do crossbreeding, self-fertilization, and clonal propagation shape the grapevine genome? This article explores surprising findings from Pinot Noir and reveals new strategies for plant breeding—explained through an engaging inheritance analogy.

2025.03.04

Research

Look for the gene that produces the “prop root,” a special root that supports the grass plant!

Prop roots, found in crops like maize and rice, play a critical role in anchoring plants and enhancing nutrient uptake. Recent studies have identified key genes that regulate their formation, offering new possibilities for developing lodging-resistant and drought-tolerant crops. Learn how this discovery could transform sustainable agriculture.

2025.01.02

Research

A Plant-like Protein in Humans with Similar Structure and Function!

A surprising discovery: the human lysosomal protein LYCHOS closely resembles plant PIN transporters, both in structure and function. Could this indicate an evolutionary connection between humans and plants? This article unpacks a groundbreaking Nature study revealing molecular similarities across kingdoms.

2024.11.01

Research

Creating New Pesticides by Combining Molecules in Plants!

A novel plant-based pesticide combines antimicrobial peptides with functional domains to sustainably combat pathogens and pests. Learn how it works.

2024.10.29

Research

Just Before a New Variety. Mixed Cultivation Utilizing Strengths Accelerates Agricultural Development Speed.

New research shows how intercropping existing varieties can improve pest resistance—no need for new breeds. A sustainable path to smarter agriculture.

2024.10.27

Research

The Mechanism for Adjusting the Length of Cucumber Pedicels Has Been Identified! It Was Thought to Be Basic Research, But It Turned Out to Be an Important Factor in Developing Future Cucumbers.

New research has revealed how cytokinin, a plant hormone, controls the pedicel length in cucumbers by regulating cell number. This discovery links pedicel length to fruit quality and uniformity, offering new potential in cucumber breeding and smart agriculture, including factory farming.

2024.10.10

Research

A fine line between poison and medicine. The growth-promoting effect of the substance “fusicoccin,” which has been regarded as a poison for plants.

Originally known as a deadly toxin produced by plant pathogens, fusicoccin shows surprising potential to enhance plant growth under controlled conditions. Discover how it works, its impact on stomatal function, and its prospects as a new biostimulant.

2024.10.10

Research

The Impact of Seaweed Feed on Livestock: A Significant Contribution

Seaweed-derived antibacterial and antioxidant compounds help reduce antibiotic use in livestock, promoting sustainable and eco-friendly farming. Learn how brown and green seaweeds improve animal health and environmental impact.

2024.09.10

Research

In Search of Non-Shattering Soybeans: The Ongoing Exploration of Soybean Shattering Genes

Pod shattering is a major cause of yield loss in soybean farming. Recent research has identified the roles of Pdh1 and Sh1 genes in enhancing pod strength and reducing seed loss. This article explains the mechanisms behind shatter resistance and its potential in crop breeding.

2024.09.01

Research

Discovery of a Crucial Gene for Thorn Formation! Thornless Roses Might Become a Reality

A breakthrough in plant genetics has identified the LOG gene as a key player in thorn development across multiple species. Learn how genome editing may help create safer, more efficient thornless crops and ornamentals.

2024.08.19

Research