Monday, 13 March 2017

Modified corn fights fungus with "Trojan horse" RNA

Researchers have genetically modified corn to neutralize the toxic compounds found in fungus

The Aspergillus family of fungi is a dangerous food contaminant, thanks to its tendency to produce aflatoxins. These carcinogenic compounds have been linked to stunted growth in children, liver cancer, and immune suppression, which in turn increases a person's vulnerability to conditions like HIV. Now, researchers at the University of Arizona have genetically modified corn plants to fight back, by letting them send "Trojan horse" molecules into the fungus to neutralize its ability to produce the toxins.

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Category: Biology

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