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The comparison technique вЂ“ an example of what's called phylogenomics вЂ“ yielded 265 positively selected genes, suggesting they correlated with mutations that might confer advantages in the Atacama desert.ДЇurther analysis revealed 59 of these genes also show up in one of the most-studied model organisms in plant biology, Arabidopsis,В in which they have been linked to physiological and molecular processes that can enhance plant resilience in extreme environmental conditions, the researchers say. 'The goal was to use this evolutionary tree based on genome sequences to identify the changes in amino acid sequences encoded in the genes that support the evolution of the Atacama plant adaptation to desert conditions,' Coruzzi says. In total, 32 of the most dominant plants in the desert had their transcriptomes sequenced, which were then compared with 32 closely related species from other locations, none featuring genetic adaptations to Atacama's environment. Over a period of 10 years, Coruzzi and an international team of researchers studied Atacama plant life in 22 sites within the desert landscape, both in situ, and off site as well вЂ“ carefully ferrying plant and soil samples back to the lab, frozen in liquid nitrogen to preserve them for genomic analysis. 'In an era of accelerated climate change, it is critical to uncover the genetic basis to improve crop production and resilience under dry and nutrient-poor conditions,' says plant systems biologist Gloria Coruzzi from New York University. Researcher Gabriela Carrasco studies plant samples in the Atacama Desert.

In a new study, scientists have discerned some of those hidden tricks, discovering the genetic underpinnings of a range of adaptations that enable plant life to prosper even in the withering, extreme conditions of the Atacama desert.

the mechanisms behind these unlikely successes is a task that's more important today than perhaps ever before, as it could reveal the secrets of making food grow in a world becoming hotter and drier with every passing year. The Yellow Icon shall not be held liable for any damages, whether direct, indirect, consequen- tial or incidental, arising out of the use of, or the inability to use, this product or any individual icon/image.Д¬opyright В© 2003-2007 Yellow Icon. In addition, the read-me file must accompany the files at all times. Any registered trademarks remain the property of their respective holders. These files MAY NOT BE SOLD OR EXCHANGED FOR ANY GOODS OR SERVICES WHATSOEVER.

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