Research
from the University of Iowa State has found a gene in Arabidopsis plants that
regulates protein content in the plants leaves and seeds. It is called the
Orphan Gene because it is only found in this species of plant. Scientists Li
and Wurtele came up with the idea that what if they could transgenic technology
to implement this gene into staple crops that we commonly eat. The Orphan gene
is gene QQS and binds to protein NF-YC4 which is a protein that appears in all
plants and animals. By overexpressing this gene, scientists hope to be able to
boost the protein value in plants. Since most of the worlds’ diet consists of
plant-based protein diets, this could improve the protein quality and rely less
on costly meat-based protein. Although research is very costly and could take years,
this is only the beginning of this genes discovery, there is a large
possibility more of this gene can be discovered and it already has a large
potential.
The
discovery of this gene can make a huge impact if it is implemented in other
plants. Most people in the world already do not get enough protein in their
diet, so this could impact the world if these scientists were able to make this
work, as well as make sure it is safe. Since this gene was only discovered in
2004 and has limited research on it, hopefully scientists can unlock more
mysteries of this gene and put it to good use.
The original article can be found here.
