Enhancement of nitrogen-fixing rhizoids and development of plant symbiotic capacity
Graduate School of Science and Engineering (Science) Department of Science
Biology Program
Bioscience Course
Professor
UCHIUMI Toshiki
Background and objectives of activities
Humanity consumes large amounts of petroleum and natural gas to synthesize nitrogenous fertilizers and produce agricultural products and stored goods while emitting carbon dioxide. In other words, humanity's "food" is dependent on oil. Oil and natural gas are limited, and if this trend continues, food will become scarce. What will support the "food and future" of humankind in the future is the symbiosis of plants and microorganisms. By elucidating this mechanism at the molecular and genetic level, we aim to build a highly productive agricultural system that requires less nitrogen fertilizer.
Summary of Activities
Leguminous plants form " rhizoids " in their roots, which house rhizobia inside them. Rhizobia have nitrogen-fixing activity, synthesizing nitrogen compounds from atmospheric nitrogen gas and supplying them to plants as nutrients. By applying the nitric oxide-regulating function of plant hemoglobin, we are working to produce legume plants that grow rhizobia with high nitrogen-fixing activity, which last longer, and whose activity does not decline easily even if the roots are flooded during heavy rainfall. They are also working with domestic researchers to develop crops other than legumes that can coexist with rhizobia.
Expected Benefits
The project can contribute to the establishment of a "sustainable food production system" by improving the quantity and quality of crops and reducing the amount of nitrogen fertilizers used. Since the synthesis of nitrogen fertilizers involves massive consumption of fossil fuels and enormous carbon dioxide emissions, it will also lead to the realization of a low-carbon society.