Making crops tougher against pests could change the agriculture game and improve our food security. Many insects target crops like corn, peas, and beans, and infestations can hit farmers hard. A recent study in the Biotechnology Journal shares a new way to handle this issue with gene editing.
The researchers propose modifying plants to boost the proteins in their DNA that fend off pests. Wild ancestors of popular crops had more of these proteins, making them hard for insects to digest. However, as farming practices evolved, domesticated plants lost these protective features.
By using gene editing, scientists aim to reinstate these proteins. “Gene editing allows us to enhance the production and activity of these inhibitors specifically against pests,” said Marcos Fernando Basso, the paper’s lead author, according to Phys.org. “This could be a significant development in the coming years.”
However, pinpointing the right modifications to keep the crops safe for humans and animals is tricky. The paper suggests advancements in gene editing make this achievement possible sooner rather than later.
If this approach becomes widely adopted, it could greatly enhance crop yields and bolster food supply. Pests don’t just harm crops in the fields; they continue to threaten produce during transport and storage, leading to shortages and increased prices. Protecting crops in this way could cut down costs, save time, and reduce stress for farmers.
Moreover, supporting sustainable practices is crucial. A recent report indicates that food waste in the U.S. makes up about 30-40% of the food supply, resulting in economic losses estimated at $161 billion per year. To tackle this, individuals can explore ways to maximize their leftovers or find tips to store food longer, contributing to both lower grocery bills and reduced waste.
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