Advanced imaging and biochemical techniques for tracking lipophilic molecules in plants
A novel approach combining advanced imaging, genetic modification, and biochemical analysis to study lipophilic molecule transport in crops. This technology offers insights into fungicide behavior and bioactive molecule interactions with plant cuticles.
Overview
This innovative research combines advanced imaging techniques, genetic modification, and biochemical analysis to study the transport of lipophilic molecules in crops. By utilizing non-destructive imaging over time, the technology provides valuable insights into the behavior of fungicides and other bioactive molecules within plant systems. The approach aims to model and understand the interactions of these molecules with plant cuticles, potentially improving agricultural practices and crop protection strategies.
Technical specifications
The core technology includes a custom-built fiber-optic imager for tracing fluorescent molecules, suitable for both fungicides and lipophilic model compounds. Confocal Raman microscopy is employed to obtain high-resolution, 3D images of plant cuticles, enhanced by deuterium-labeling for specificity. The research also involves the use of Arabidopsis cuticle mutants and RNA interference in soybean to evaluate the impact of altered cuticle properties on molecule transport. Advanced techniques like GC/MS and HPLC are used to measure molecule integrity and cuticle components.
Technology readiness level
Currently at Technology Readiness Level 4, this research has demonstrated laboratory validation and is progressing towards further development and refinement. The combination of microscopy and genetic modification offers a robust framework for evaluating lipophilic molecule movement in plant systems.
About University of Chicago
The University of Chicago is a private institution that brings together the power of 140 institutes and centers including an NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, a microbiome focused center, two U.S. Department of Energy National Labs (Argonne National Laboratory and Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory) and the Marine Biological Laboratory, making it a truly powerful research and development enterprise of over 15,000 faculty and research staff. UChicago is home to the Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, launched in 2011 as the first and only engineering school in the U.S. focused entirely on molecular engineering with one of the major focused areas in immunoengineering, and a core partner of the Chan Zuckerberg (CZ) Biohub - Chicago. Researchers at UChicago have pioneered breakthroughs including discovering the link between cancer and genetics, establishing revolutionary theories of economics, and developing tools to enhance urban schooling. UChicago researchers are at the forefront of fields ranging from quantum computing, data science and artificial intelligence, to the modeling and synthesis of advanced materials, to oncology and neuroscience.
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