Authors: Weber Whelan, Shayar Ajay Joshi, Abigail Grace Pickrel, and Dr. Hong Luo
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Hong Luo
College: College of Science
Biotechnology has revolutionized agriculture by addressing challenges posed by abiotic stressors like drought, heat, nitrogen deficiency, and salinity. Plant genetic engineering using recombinant DNA and transgenic technologies allows researchers to alter plant genome and biological processes and evaluate how different genes impact plant response to abiotic stresses in an effort to improve plant performance under environmental adversities enhancing crop yield. Genetically modifying plants often involves introduction of desired genes into single cells of the target organisms and regeneration of the transformed cells into plants expressing the transgenes. MicroRNAs, the small RNA molecules involved in post-transcriptional regulation of target genes, have been shown to play critical roles in stress response pathways. Here, the data presented demonstrates how to genetically engineer perennial grasses for enhanced plant resistance to multiple abiotic stresses by manipulating expression of various miRNA genes in transgenic plants. These advancements offer promising solutions to enhance agricultural efficiency, combat food scarcity, and cultivate tolerant crops in underutilized areas. By altering the genetic information of plants, researchers observe the impacts on stress tolerance and crop yield. Biotechnology presents valuable tools to modify crops, provides insights into increasing plant tolerance to abiotic stress, and promotes food security for the benefit of humanity.
Weber Whelan 2023 Undergraduate Poster Forum