News & Events

Sulfate availability critically influences plant growth, yet the role of small RNAs, particularly microRNAs (miRNAs), in regulating responses to sulfate deficiency remains poorly understood. Here, we conducted a temporal analysis of sulfate deficiency-responsive miRNAs in the roots and leaves of Solanum lycopersicum (tomato), using an updated miRNA annotation in the SL4.0 genome. We found 40 differentially expressed miRNAs, including 2 novel, tomato-specific miRNAs.

The Colombian seed sector ends the year with a positive balance, reaching a value of 1.4% growth from the previous year. This stable growth is proof that the sector continues as a driving force in national production. Amidst value growth, the Colombian Association of Seeds and Biotechnology (Acosemillas) noted some challenges in 2025. These include the delays in GM crop approvals, which limit competitiveness and hinder progress in the field application of GM crop research. Another concern is seed piracy

Renewable water availability per person has continued to decline by a further 7 per cent over the past decade, while pressure on already scarce freshwater resources is increasing in several regions, according to the 2025 AQUASTAT Water Data Snapshot released by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). The update provides a global overview of how water availability and use are evolving, presenting new data on irrigation, efficiency, and water stress reported through the 2024 AQUASTAT cycle

Cassava is a crucial staple crop in Africa, but its productivity is increasingly threatened by the worsening impacts of drought caused by climate change. To address this challenge, an integration of "omics" and genome editing technologies has emerged as indispensable tools for understanding the complex mechanisms that govern cassava's response to drought stress. This article provides an overview of the progress and significant contributions of "omics" technologies, including genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics, in elucidating the molecular basis of cassava's ability to withstand drought stress

The International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) and its global partners have introduced Green Nutritious Super Rice (GNSR), a new generation of rice varieties designed to address the twin challenges of global malnutrition and climate change. Building on the successful Green Super Rice (GSR) initiative launched in 2008, the GNSR program focuses on developing high-yielding, multi-stress-tolerant rice that is also nutrient-rich and environmentally sustainable.

A study conducted by researchers from the International Food Policy Research Institute finds that genetically modified (GM) pod borer-resistant (PBR) cowpea significantly improves farm yields and profits for smallholder farmers in Nigeria. The researchers compared PBR cowpea with conventionally improved varieties using a large cluster randomized controlled trial in two major cowpea-growing states.

The introduction of landrace-derived material into modern breeding programs can only succeed if it performs satisfactorily for yield and other key agronomic traits. In this study, we explored the prospects of rapid cycling genomic selection in maize (Zea mays L.) to accelerate pre-breeding of landraces in comparison with recurrent phenotypic selection. We performed three cycles of genomic selection for testcross performance.

Researchers from Kunming University of Science and Technology and Northwest A&F University in China have identified a key gene module in grapevine that boosts resistance to Erysiphe necator, the fungal pathogen responsible for powdery mildew. They found that the interaction between two genes, VqMAPK3 and VqERF1B, plays a crucial role in activating defense-related genes that help the plant fight infection.

COP30 in Belém leaves behind a complex political atmosphere, shaped by global divisions and even the unexpected drama of a fire in the venue. As the dust settles and initial assessments appear, one central question remains: a decade after the Paris Agreement, was this COP any different? Inside negotiation rooms, several high-profile issues were ultimately excluded from the final decision texts. Yet, beyond the formal negotiations, the COP witnessed meaningful advances for nature, land restoration, and implementation.

Genomic integrity is constantly challenged by transcription/replication conflicts, a major source of replication stress and instability across all life forms. While extensive studies have elucidated mechanisms for resolving transcription/replication conflicts in animals, yeast, and prokaryotes, their counterparts in plants remain largely unexplored. Through a forward genetic screen, we identified LUMINIDEPENDENS (LD), previously known for its role in regulating the flowering repressor FLC, as a key factor in mitigating replication stress in plants.

The Panel on Genetically Modified Organisms of the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA GMO Panel) has released the results of the scientific risk assessment for the renewal application for drought tolerant genetically modified (GM) maize MON 87460. The application, submitted by Bayer CropScience, covers the continued authorization of the maize MON 87460 for food and feed uses within the European Union, excluding cultivation.

The seventh session of the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA-7) will take place from 8–12 December 2025, at the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) headquarters in Nairobi The seventh session of the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA-7) will take place from 8–12 December 2025, at the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) headquarters in Nairobi, after a week of negotiations at the seventh session of the Open-ended Committee of Permanent Representatives (OECPR) (OECPR).