2. How does LIFE contribute to plant biotech research worldwide?

 

Elite research area: Plant biotechnology 

Poul Erik Jensen, professor and anchorperson answers the question:

 

“Several of the world’s leading researchers within plant biotechnology, who regularly publish their research results in internationally recognised journals, are employed at LIFE.

The fact that they are now linked together in one elite research area at LIFE enables them to engage in even closer interdisciplinary teamwork, facilitating greater synergies in future between our different core competences.”

 

Photosynthesis with hidden potential

“One specific example is the work being conducted in relation to photosynthesis, the process whereby a plant converts sunlight into nutritious starch and durable cellulose. Most people know that it is vital for life on earth, but we have now learned that photosynthesis possesses considerable hidden potential.

We have discovered that the plant photosynthesis can be used to produce new and exciting substances. Using state-of-the-art biotechnology – so-called synthetic biology – we can merge enzymes directly with the plant’s photosynthesis apparatus, enabling the plant to produce the substance in its own sustainable ‘factory’!

Instead of just producing glucose, photosynthesis now helps to produce a new, functional substance in as yet unseen volumes. ”

 

Strengthen photosynthesis and feed the world!

“We are also working on ‘enhancing’ plants’ photosynthesis in order to increase plant yields. Plant yield has become a buzzword of late because, as everyone knows, we will need to produce twice as much food by 2050 in order to feed the entire world population.

It is unlikely that more land will become available for growing crops, so instead we need to find out how best to utilise the yield from plants. At the same time as ensuring that we still have recreational areas. One solution model we are working on is enhancing photosynthesis within the plant.”

 

Plant biotechnology can reduce stress in plants

“In the field, plants are constantly fighting off external attacks, but an effective and balanced photosynthesis can strengthen their defences.

Photosynthesis which can protect the plant and – if the damage is already done – quickly repair the plant when it is subjected to environmental and climate change. We are therefore working on making the photosynthesis less sensitive to the stresses caused by the environment and climate with drought, salt and insect attacks.”

 

But how do we strengthen photosynthesis?

“One of the methods we use is to monitor the photosynthesis in a primitive plant such as moss, which adapts extremely well to stressful situations, to find out how it does so.

So far, it has given us great ideas as to how we can refine our cultivated plants, enabling us, e.g., to produce crops that are more resistant to drought.”