News & Events

Cultivated peanut (Arachis hypogaea, AABB genome) is an allotetraploid species that likely originated from hybridization between the two wild diploid species A. duranensis (AA) and A. ipaensis (BB). Chromosome identification and genomic evolution studies in Arachis species have encountered significant challenges due to the absence of consensus karyotypes. In this study, we developed the first “barcode” consensus karyotype for peanut using single-copy oligonucleotide probe libraries.

Scientists from CIMMYT and Corteva Agriscience successfully devised an effective method to improve pearl millet using genetic transformation and CRISPR-based editing. This breakthrough is expected to help improve traits vital for food security, nutrition, and climate resilience.

In its 80th year, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has unveiled a transformed headquarters in Rome, featuring expanded green spaces, an inspiring new museum, as well as upgraded facilities across its global network.As FAO enters its ninth decade, these changes symbolize a commitment to trust, innovation, and a future where no one is left behind. From green roofs and solar-powered offices to immersive cultural spaces, FAO is opening its doors to Rome and to the world.

Pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum L.), a C4 grass, accounts for 50% of total millet area in terms of global production (Ramu et al. 2023). It plays an important role in food and nutritional security for more than 90 million people in arid regions of Sub-Saharan Africa and Asia (Yadav et al. 2021). This crop exhibits an inherent capacity to adapt to drought and elevated temperatures, displaying resilience against saline and acidic soil conditions, rendering it particularly well-suited for utilization in marginal lands with low fertility.

Experts from Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences and Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences in China have identified a rice enzyme that helps plants break down two widely used herbicides. The study focuses on CYP709B2, a cytochrome P450 enzyme that plays a central role in the detoxification and catabolism of herbicides isoproturon and atrazine. The researchers found that CYP709B2 becomes active when rice plants are exposed to these herbicides. In this study, the rice plants that were modified to overexpress the enzyme showed significant resistance to both herbicides,

External fiscal pressures and shifting global priorities have significantly impacted the availability of global resources for public investment. However, amidst these challenging circumstances, FAO has demonstrated remarkable resilience and effectiveness, successfully mobilizing approximately $1.624 billion in voluntary contributions in 2025. While this figure reflects an eight percent decline from 2024, it still ranks among the strongest results in FAO’s history.

The recent emergence of Babacco Mosaic Virus (BabMV), a potexvirus known to infect Vasconcellea heilbornii (babaco), has raised concerns about its potential to infect papaya cultivars. To assess the impact of BabMV on papaya plants, we conducted a comprehensive genome-wide transcriptome analysis to evaluate the effect of the virus on gene expression and defense responses in Papaya (Carica papaya). Leaves from papaya plants of 3-4-month-old plants were examined at 2, 10, 15, and 30 days post-infection (dpi) with BabMV and compared to uninfected controls.

Scientists at the Centre for Genomic Regulation in Barcelona and the University of Cambridge developed a method that allows precise, lifelong control of protein levels inside different tissues of a living animal. The new technique, demonstrated successfully in nematode worm Caenorhabditis elegans, opens up more ways to study ageing, disease, and whole-body biological coordination.

The latest Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) analysis for Gaza confirms that no areas of the Strip are currently classified in famine following the October ceasefire and improved humanitarian and commercial access. This welcome progress remains extremely fragile as the population continues to struggle with massive infrastructure destruction and collapsed livelihoods and local food production, given restrictions on humanitarian operations.

Isoflavonoids, predominantly found in legumes, are specialized metabolites with antioxidant properties that benefit both plant resilience and human health. Using metabolic genome-wide association studies (mGWAS), we identified the cytochrome P450 gene (Glyma.11g108300), GmIF6H1, as a key determinant of glycitein biosynthesis in soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.]. Biochemical assays together with in planta stable-isotope tracing demonstrated that GmIF6H1 catalyzes the 6-hydroxylation of daidzein,

Experts at Tufts University have developed a new way to biosynthetically produce tagatose, a low-calorie sugar that tastes almost like regular table sugar without its potential harms to human health. The findings of the study, published in Cell Reports Physical Science, show a promising method to develop tagatose more efficiently and affordably for people at risk of obesity, insulin resistance, and diabetes.

In a rapidly changing global context – characterized by intersecting crises such as persistent hunger, malnutrition, climate disruption, conflict and economic volatility – FAO has renewed its approach to delivering on its mandate. Anchored in the Strategic Framework 2022–2031, FAO has fortified its capacity to support Members in strengthening agrifood systems that are more efficient, more inclusive, more resilient and more sustainable. At its core are the Four Betters – better production, better nutrition, a better environment and a better life, leaving no one behind – translated into action through 20 Programme Priority Areas (PPAs) that guide FAO’s technical, normative and operational work.