By Blake Jackson
Researchers at the University of Missouri have identified a key scaffold protein that helps plants produce natural pesticide-like compounds, offering new possibilities for pest-resistant crops.
Plants naturally generate these protective molecules, but in insufficient amounts, leaving them vulnerable to pests like the Colorado potato beetle, which can damage crops and cause economic losses.
Assistant Professor Prashant Sonawane, leading the research, highlighted the breakthrough’s significance. “Now that we know how these compounds are made, it is a game changer because we can use metabolic engineering approaches advanced technologies that Mizzou has invested in to try to increase production of these compounds, ultimately leading to stronger, more resilient crops and benefitting farmers,” he said.
The study compared two black nightshade plants, part of the Solanaceae family that includes potatoes and tomatoes. One plant was genetically modified to remove scaffold protein, while the other remained unchanged.
“We found that when we remove the scaffold protein from the plant, the plant suddenly becomes very susceptible to damage from pests and pathogens, but not the wild type plant with the scaffold protein,” Sonawane explained.
Beyond agriculture, these compounds could have medical applications, including potential treatments for cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. Sonawane, who moved from Germany to further his research, praised Mizzou’s resources.
“When it comes to agriculture and plant sciences research, Mizzou is on another level, and that is why I came here,” he said. His team plans to continue exploring the potential of scaffold proteins to enhance plant resilience and sustainability.
Photo Credit: university-of-missouri
Categories: Missouri, Crops, Education