Purdue University scientists have found the last gene responsible for the production of phenylalanine. The discovery of the gene is immense for this amino acid especially in plants. With the total of 10 genes that are responsible to the production of phenylalanine, the quantity of this amino acid can be regulated. This can be beneficial as the article states, “Decreasing phenylalanine could lead to a reduction in lignin, which would improve digestibility of cellulosic materials for ethanol production. Increasing phenylalanine could boost the nutritional value of some foods.” The findings were tested on E. coli and on petunias, and the results were as expected.
Phenylalanine is also responsible for the production of flower scent, anti-oxidants and the plant cell wall component that helps plants stand upright. Dudareva said, “she would use the discovery to increase the scent of flowers in order to study the interaction of insects with flowers.” The increase in flower scent may also be beneficial for males to attract females especially for Valentines Day.
http://www.geneticstimes.com/research/Gene_find_could_lead_to_healthier_food_better_biofuel_production.asp
I thought this article was interesting. It would very beneficial to everyone if we could willingly increase the nutritional value of food. Also, I like the idea of increasing the scent of flowers. Im sure a lot of people would appreciate this as well in their homes and on holidays such as Valentines day stated above.
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