Finding ferns that can live in arsenic-polluted environments

New research published shows that the plant Pteris vittata, often called the native fern species in China, has the ability to accumulate and withstand high levels of arsenic (arsenic) that can kill real species. Other animals and animals.

Other researchers have shown that this fern species, when grown on arsenic-contaminated soil, can remove nearly 50% of arsenic for five years, study author Jody Banks said. Although it takes a lot of time, it is very cheap.

The native fern species in China is said to be able to clean up arsenic.

Purdue University researchers sequenced the fern genome to determine the genetic mechanism and the cell controlling its arsenic tolerance.

3 special genes show high activity when plants are exposed to arsenic, allowing it to store toxic elements in leaves without adverse effects. Another protein called " GAPC1 " chemical arsenic trap from soil. GAPC1 uses phosphate to break down glucose into energy, but in Chinese ferns, it has a higher affinity for arsenic than phosphate, essentially neutralizing the effects of arsenic.

Other genes work together to clean up arsenic inside a cell until it can't harm anything.

Researcher Chao Cai said this fern species has chosen the same mechanism to tolerate arsenic that bacteria use. There are no plants or animals we know that can do that like this fern.

Meanwhile, Purdue University researchers have identified genetic mechanisms that allow ferns to tolerate arsenic, which could lead to modifications to other crops that can overcome pollution more quickly. and more effective.

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