Plants
A new study challenges the long-held idea that water movement drives the rapid closure of Venus flytraps. Researchers instead point to quick changes in cell wall stiffness triggered by electric signals.
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Researchers have identified a natural geometric pattern known as a Voronoi diagram in the leaves of the Chinese money plant. The discovery reveals how the plant organizes its pores and veins using principles common in city planning and network design.
Scientists at UBC Okanagan have identified the enzymes plants use to produce mitraphylline, a rare compound with potential anti-cancer properties. This breakthrough solves a long-standing mystery and paves the way for sustainable production of such molecules. The discovery highlights plants' untapped potential in medicine.
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A study from Kobe University has uncovered how Balanophora plants, which do not photosynthesize and some of which reproduce asexually, manage to thrive as parasites on host plant roots. These elusive species, hidden underground most of their lives, offer new insights into plant evolution and metabolism. The findings highlight dramatic reductions in their plastid genomes while maintaining vital functions.