Crops on the Cusp of Self-Fertilization: Groundbreaking Protein Mutation Unlocks New Era in Plant Nutrition

Researchers at Aarhus University have made a groundbreaking discovery that could revolutionize the way crops are fertilized. A small protein mutation has been found to enable plants to partner with nitrogen-fixing bacteria, potentially allowing them to fertilize themselves. This breakthrough could significantly reduce the demand for synthetic fertilizers, which are a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. According to Kasper Røjkjær Andersen and Simona Radutoiu, professors of molecular biology at Aarhus University, the discovery was made by identifying a molecular switch that determines whether plants reject or welcome nitrogen-fixing bacteria. By tweaking only two amino acids, the researchers were able to convert a defensive receptor into one that supports symbiosis. This early success in barley suggests that cereals may eventually be engineered to fix nitrogen on their own. The implications of this discovery are far-reaching, with the potential to transform the way crops are grown and fertilized. Synthetic fertilizers are a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, accounting for around 2% of global emissions. By reducing or eliminating the need for these fertilizers, the discovery could have a significant impact on the environment. The researchers believe that their discovery could pave the way for the development of self-fertilizing crops, which could have a major impact on food production. "We are one step closer to a greener and climate-friendlier food production," said Andersen. Radutoiu added, "This breakthrough has the potential to transform the way we grow crops and could have a major impact on the environment." The discovery builds on previous research into the relationship between plants and nitrogen-fixing bacteria. These bacteria have the ability to convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form that is usable by plants, but they are often rejected by plant roots. The researchers' discovery provides a key to understanding how plants can be engineered to welcome these bacteria and benefit from their ability to fix nitrogen. The next step for the researchers will be to continue testing and refining their discovery. They plan to work with plant breeders and geneticists to develop new crop varieties that can fix nitrogen on their own. While there are still many challenges to overcome, the potential benefits of this discovery are significant. In a statement, the researchers emphasized the importance of their discovery and its potential to transform the way crops are grown. "This breakthrough has the potential to transform the way we grow crops and could have a major impact on the environment," said Radutoiu.