Scientists Have Created a Genetically Modified Plant That Changes Color in the Presence of Explosives
According to the authors of the study, June Medford and colleagues at the University of Colorado (USA), these genetically modified plants can detect vapors of TNT (Trinitrotoluene) in the air at concentrations below 25 parts per billion by volume, making them 100 times more sensitive than a dog’s sense of smell.
Genetically modified plants can change their leaf color from green to yellow when explosives are detected.
At concentrations above this level, the color of the leaves will shift from green to yellow within a few hours. To use them in practice, simply place the potted plant in an atmosphere containing TNT for several seconds to a few minutes.
The plant chosen for the experiment was tobacco. After altering the structure of a receptor on the cell surface, known as the periplasm, scientists enabled it to recognize the presence of TNT in the air and change color.
The modification of the receptor structure was achieved using a special computer model. This allowed them to easily create plant species that change color in the presence of specific chemicals, particularly those that pollute air and water.
Medford, the lead researcher, told New Scientist: “One possible application of our invention is in environmental monitoring, followed by enhancing public safety.”
This research was published in the journal PloS ONE.
