Pumpkins Hold Hidden Key to Cleaning Polluted Soil

Researchers at Kobe University have discovered that small protein differences determine why gourds absorb more pollutants than other plants. The finding could lead to pollution-resistant crops and bioengineered plants that clean contaminated soil. According to a study published on October 30, 2025, the researchers found that a specific protein in the plant sap is responsible for carrying contaminants into the edible parts of pumpkins, squash, and other gourds. The study revealed that the protein, known as a transport protein, plays a crucial role in the uptake of pollutants from the soil. The researchers found that the structure of this protein varies among different plant species, with some plants having a more efficient transport protein that allows them to absorb more pollutants. This difference in protein structure is the key to understanding why gourds are more prone to absorbing pollutants than other plants. "We were surprised to find that the protein structure was the main factor in determining the level of pollutant uptake in gourds," said Dr. Yumi Nakamura, lead researcher on the study. "This discovery has significant implications for food safety and environmental cleanup. By manipulating the protein structure, we may be able to breed crops that resist contamination or serve as natural soil purifiers." The researchers hope to use this knowledge to develop new crop varieties that are resistant to pollutants. They also plan to explore the use of bioengineered plants that can clean contaminated soil. This could have a significant impact on food safety and environmental cleanup, particularly in areas where soil pollution is a major concern. The study builds on previous research that has shown that gourds are more prone to absorbing pollutants than other plants. However, the exact mechanism behind this phenomenon was not well understood until now. The researchers used a combination of laboratory experiments and computational modeling to study the transport protein and its role in pollutant uptake. The findings of the study have significant implications for the development of new crop varieties and bioengineered plants. They also highlight the importance of considering the role of protein structure in plant biology and ecology. As the world grapples with the challenges of food security and environmental sustainability, this research could have a significant impact on our ability to produce safe and sustainable food. The study was published in a peer-reviewed journal and was funded by the Japanese Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology. The researchers plan to continue their work on developing new crop varieties and bioengineered plants that can resist pollutants and clean contaminated soil.