Gene-Edited Poplar Trees Produce High-Strength Compressed Wood

Scientists at the University of Maryland used gene editing to develop poplar trees that can be used to produce high-performance, structural wood. The gene-edited trees can also be used for carbon storage to minimize carbon emissions.

The production of engineered wood requires the usage of volatile chemicals and huge amounts of energy. These factors can negatively affect people's health and damage the environment. Thus, an alternative method is necessary to avoid these issues.

Researchers used base editing to knock out the 4CL1 gene in poplar trees. The gene-edited trees were used to make high-strength compressed wood, which has reduced lignin content and was found to be as strong as the chemically processed natural wood. The technique provides a cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative for developing densified wood.

For more information, read the article in Matter.