Cells, Genes & Molecules

The odour profiles of carnivorous pitcher plants play a major role in attracting specific prey, according to new research.

Researchers have uncovered the unique structure and function of the S1-type nuclease enzyme DAN1 in the Lance-leaved sundew, Drosera adelae, which aids the carnivorous plant in breaking down prey for nutrient absorption.

Since the release of the first plant genome in 2000, the field of next-generation sequencing applied to botanical species has bloomed and expanded from model organism (Arabidopsis thaliana) to crops, thus becoming a powerful tool to guide progress towards a more sustainable agriculture.