Detection of the Eibi1 mutant gene in wild barley plants

Researchers at Haifa University, Israel, have discovered mutant genes in wild barley plants grown in the Judean desert, Israel, the discovery is a precursor to an international study to decode progress. chemistry of life on a global scale.

The results of the study are published in PNAS .

" Life on earth starts with water, and plants have also crossed the water to live on land, they have to develop epidermis to control evaporation and dehydration. In our research, we discovered The new gene is completely coupled with other genes that contribute to this epidermis , "said Professor Eviatar Nevo, who works at the Institute of Evolution, Haifa University, Israel, who participated in the study.

Wild barley tree

The study was conducted in 2000 by apprentice Dr. Guoxiong Chen, at the University of Haifa, Israel, under the guidance of Professor Eviatar Nevo. Guoxiong Chen found the mutant gene of wild barley in the Judean, Israeli desert, significantly smaller than the genes of other wild barley . Scientists found that the mutant gene caused an abnormal increase in dehydration in wild barley plants, because it caused a disruption in the formation of barley horns. , this horny shell is secreted from epidermal cells and is an ingredient in the epidermis of barley, which has been shown to reduce evaporation and prevent dehydration.

Guoxiong Chen then returned to China to receive a professorship, while continuing to pursue wild barley research in the Judean desert, Israel, with a group of researchers from China and Japan. Edition, Switzerland and Israel. After about 8 years of research, the team discovered a new gene that contributes to the production of horns, found in all land plants, but this gene either does not exist. or present with a small amount in aquatic plants. Chen named this new gene Eibi1 , to express his gratitude to his teacher, Professor Eviatar Nevo.

" As one of the genes that contributes to the actual situation of life on earth as we know it today. It is an important factor in the adaptation process of aquatic plants that have experienced life on the ground. , "according to Professor Eviatar Nevo. The mutant plays an important role not only in the study of evolution, but it is also valuable in the research and development of future grains, " once we fully understand the mechanism behind After the creation of the horns and the discovery of genetic variants of the Eibi1 gene, we can promote cuticle formation in wheat and barley species, making them resistant to dehydration and more durable in dry soil conditions Enhancing the genetic genes of plants helps them to be more persistent in drought and saltwater conditions, which can help promote food production on a global scale , "Church Eviatar Nevo monk concludes.