Plant Biology
Kobe University researchers identify protein mechanism behind gourds’ pollutant uptake
Heather Vogel Imethibitishwa ukweli
Kobe University scientists report that variants of a major latex-like protein, secreted into plant sap, help explain why pumpkins, squash and other cucurbits draw hydrophobic pollutants into their edible parts—an insight that could guide safer crops and soil-cleanup strategies.