Researchers from the University of Queensland have made significant strides in the field of agricultural science by successfully implanting genetic material into plants via their roots for the first time. This innovative technique, led by Professor Bernard Carroll, could revolutionise crop development, allowing for the rapid creation of new crop varieties without the lengthy process of traditional breeding that typically spans a decade.
The nanoparticle method not only holds potential for increasing crop yields but also for enhancing quality attributes, such as flavour. The nanoparticles were engineered to penetrate the tougher plant cell walls, facilitating the delivery of mRNA, which carries genetic instructions essential for plant development. This process mirrors how mRNA vaccines function in humans, providing temporary genetic instructions before degrading.
Carroll emphasised the advantages of this approach, suggesting that with further research, it could address specific crop issues much more efficiently. The technique has been patented by UQ’s commercialisation arm, UniQuest, which is now looking for partners to advance its development. As the agricultural community embraces this scientific breakthrough, the impact on future crop production could be profound, potentially leading to a new era of super-crops tailored to meet global food demands.