Show-Me State Times

Plants naturally produce molecules that act as pesticides to defend against pests, but often in insufficient quantities. This leaves them vulnerable to threats like the Colorado potato beetle, which can damage crops and cause economic losses for farmers.

Researchers at the University of Missouri have potentially found a solution. A recent study revealed that a scaffold protein plays a crucial role in facilitating the production of these protective molecules in plants. This discovery could lead to genetically modified plants and biocontrol agents that enhance crop protection against pests and pathogens.

Prashant Sonawane, an assistant professor at the College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources, is leading this research. "Now that we know how these compounds are made, it is a game changer because we can use metabolic engineering approaches — advanced technologies that Mizzou has invested in — to try to increase production of these compounds, ultimately leading to stronger, more resilient crops and benefitting farmers," Sonawane stated. He also noted potential benefits for human medicine: "Some of the compounds in plants can also potentially be used in cancer treatments or to treat neurodegenerative diseases."

The study involved comparing two similar black nightshade plants from the Solanaceae family. One plant was genetically altered to remove the scaffold protein while the other remained unchanged. Sonawane explained, "We found that when we remove the scaffold protein from the plant, the plant suddenly becomes very susceptible to damage from pests and pathogens." This indicates that the scaffold protein regulates biosynthesis of protective compounds.

Sonawane described this co-evolution between plants and pathogens as "a constant game of cat and mouse." With new knowledge about scaffold proteins' roles, his lab aims to engineer high-value compounds within plants sustainably.

Sonawane relocated from Germany to continue his research at Mizzou due to its infrastructure and collaborative opportunities. He praised Mizzou's facilities: "I am impressed with Mizzou’s research infrastructure... When it comes to agriculture and plant sciences research, Mizzou is on another level."