Bioluminescent petunias now available in the U.S.
Added on 05 February 2024
People are fascinated with glowing plants, and scientists have now revealed how to make these much brighter. This significant achievement, documented in Nature Methods, details genetic modifications which enhance bioluminescence in a variety of plants by up to 100 times. The team of 26 scientists, working across nine research organizations, created the brighter plants by optimizing genes isolated from multiple species of luminous mushrooms.
The new research builds on an earlier discovery for creating continuously glowing plants by inserting DNA obtained from the mushrooms. Those researchers had revealed a surprising similarity between mushroom bioluminescence and plant metabolism, allowing for more visible light than was previously possible. In this new report, the scientists have adapted the inserted genes to further boost luminescence.
The improvements were not limited to glowing plants. The scientists showed that the genetic modifications also elevated luminescence in yeast and mammalian cells. But the luminescence in plants was entirely self sustaining owing to the metabolic synergy. This enables perpetual illumination without any external aid. Petunias provided the brightest bioluminescence, especially in the flower buds.
Beginning in April, glowing petunias will be available under the brand Firefly Petunia, so named because the bright buds resemble fireflies. Last September, the USDA determined through its independent evaluation that Light Bio’s genetically engineered Firefly Petunia may be safely grown and bred in the United States. This creates an unparalleled opportunity for plant enthusiasts to enjoy the transformative experience of living light.
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