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Understanding the Science Behind Bioluminescent Plants

Science is basically the study of nature. However, science now can duplicate nature's most remarkable features. While some may see this form of manipulation as unethical or reminiscent of science fiction films, the outcome of synthetic biology has the potential to open up a world of endless possibilities in research.

Kritika Madhukar
Genetic components that illuminate fungi are put into the plants, which are inherently responsive to bioluminescence, to create plants that shine
Genetic components that illuminate fungi are put into the plants, which are inherently responsive to bioluminescence, to create plants that shine

With the evolution of bioluminescent indoor plants, Light Bio is leading the charge towards a brighter future. To begin with, bioluminescence is common in nature. Plankton beneath the water's surface can be observed with it

You or someone you know may have been to places where the plankton is disturbed and can see this night's exhibition of light. Other animals exhibit bioluminescence as well.

What is Light Bio?

Light Bio is based on new research that improved our understanding of how mushrooms' bioluminescent properties functions. Mushrooms are fungi, which means they are one-of-a-kind organisms. They're neither plants nor animals.

The genetic components that illuminate the fungi are put into the plants, which are inherently responsive to bioluminescence, to create plants that shine.

During the day, one would never guess that these plants are anything special. Until it becomes dark, they just look like any other flower. The bioluminescent properties of the plants can only be seen when another light is removed, despite the fact that they glow continuously from the moment they are seeds.

The light is generated organically within the plant, just as it would be in nature.

Taking care of these bioluminescent plants is the same as taking care of their unaltered counterparts. There are no special procedures that must be followed. The flowers are normal in every way except for their ethereal sheen at night.

Synthetic Biology

Light Bio isn’t solving the world's problems, but they do represent science's intriguing future capabilities. Since synthetic biology is such a new field, every successful demonstration of its potential provides an incentive to look into it more.

Essentially, it's about harnessing synthetic biology to address environmental challenges such as food security and human health.

Perhaps the most significant impediment to the area of synthetic biology is public skepticism. In this way, Light Bio has built a success story with a real product that demonstrates how science can enhance rather than overpower nature. 

The Light Bio team hopes that the bioluminescent plants will help highlight the opportunities in synthetic biology and encourage students to pursue professions in the field.

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