New Genetic Discovery Could Regulate Plant Growth

A group of students from Rutgers University–Camden working to decipher the genetic basis of cell shapes in plants has made a remarkable discovery by finding a new gene. The gene named GIGANTUS1 (GTS1), is a member of a protein family that controls seed germination, growth, and biomass accumulation in plants. Essentially, it helps regulate plant growth.

The students analyzed thousands of genes governing cell shape patterning and growth in the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana and came across the GTS1 gene. Their discovery is important because it could help engineer important crops like corn and rice. Lyla Jno Baptiste, a senior Rutgers–Camden biology major said it is amazing to be part of such discovery. She added, "It could reduce the amount of time needed for crop growth cycles in the plants we depend on for food. We could also use this discovery to create sustainable energy."

For more details, read the Rutgers Today news article at: http://news.rutgers.edu/news/new-genetic-discovery-rutgers%E2%80%93camden-could-regulate-plant-growth/20140219#.UzDdLKjuKSo.