A new study has revealed the genetic basis of a crucial process for crop growth: the conversion of atmospheric nitrogen into a form of nitrogen that plants can use as a nutrient. The findings, published in Nature Communications, offer a new way to control crop growth and production.

For those who grow plants, nitrogen is a key nutrient. Without it, plants are unable to produce the proteins and enzymes they need for growth. Until now, the only way to convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form that can be taken up by plants has been through the use of nitrogen-fixing bacteria. This process is expensive and time-consuming, and can be unreliable.

However, a new study has revealed that some plants, including maize, can convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form of nitrogen that they can use. The researchers used genetic sequencing to identify the genes responsible for the process, and then used gene editing to modify the genes. The results show that manipulating these genes can significantly increase crop yields. The study offers a new way to control crop growth and production without the need for nitrogen-fixing bacteria.

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source: Phys.org