Genes Under Control: Scientists Develop Gene Switch for Chloroplasts in Plant Cells
Genes Under Control: Scientists Develop Gene Switch for Chloroplasts in Plant Cells
ScienceDaily (Apr. 13, 2010) — In plant cells, the cell nucleus and the mitochondria are not the only places where genes are read and translated into proteins. The organelles of photosynthesis -- the chloroplasts -- also have their own DNA, messenger RNA and ribosomes for forming proteins. Max Planck scientists have now discovered how to regulate the formation of proteins in the chloroplasts. They can use so-called riboswitches to switch the genes in the chloroplasts of tobacco plants on and off. These riboswitches could provide future benefit by making plants capable of delivering drugs or raw materials, or by improving the biological safety of genetically modified plants.
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