Comparative transcriptomics in ferns provide a framework for their unique evolutionary path
Plant Science Research WeeklyFerns are important and diverse land plants but are also known for their exceptionally large genomes. A new study by Ali et al. presents an extensive analysis of fern genomics through RNA-sequencing of 22 representative fern species. The study identified 18 whole-genome duplications across different…
Phylogenomics of rubber trees sheds light on latex production
Plant Science Research WeeklyNatural rubber, primarily derived from Hevea brasiliensis, is an essential global resource, but its production threatened by environmental changes and pest pressures. Fang et al. examined genome assemblies from eight high-quality Hevea accessions comprising different species. The results show unexpected…
Keystone metabolites influence rhizosphere metabolomes and microbiomes
Plant Science Research Weekly
Rhizosphere interactions between plants and microbes are essential for nitrogen cycling, stress tolerance, and plant health in general. Metabolites secreted by plant roots can greatly influence microbial community composition, although how different environmental conditions impact these interactions…
Plant Science Research Weekly: September 6, 2024
WWR Full PostReview: Guidelines for studying and naming plant plasma-membrane domains
Numerous studies have highlighted the critical importance of plasma membrane heterogeneities in regulating cell functions, leading to a proliferation of overlapping and contradictory terminologies. Here, Jaillais and others in…
Lack of Minoritized Inclusion in STEM: Beyond Mentoring to Meaningful Change
Blog, CommunityAn article by Rebecca Roston, Lesley Murphy, Imara Perera, Ebony McGee.
Dr. Ebony McGee's powerful address at the 2024 Plant Biology meeting ignited a critical conversation about structural racism in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). Her talk was co-sponsored by the…
Bridging the Gap: Navigating the Transition from Academia to Industry in Plant Sciences
Blog, Careers
The transition from academia to the private sector in plant sciences presents both exciting opportunities and unique challenges. While academic research provides a solid foundation in scientific principles and methodologies, the private sector demands a different skill set focused on practical applications,…