Latest news with #NaraInstituteofScienceandTechnology
Yahoo
23-05-2025
- Science
- Yahoo
Scientists elated after making game-changing discovery that could transform how we grow food: 'I was really excited'
A tiny molecule could be the next big breakthrough in helping farmers grow more resilient, productive crops in an increasingly unpredictable climate. Japanese scientists recently identified a new class of small molecules called devernalizers capable of delaying crop flowering. By manipulating these molecules, scientists hope they can fine-tune a plant's life cycle to better align with changing environmental conditions. As pollution-driven climate shifts become more severe, the agricultural sector has struggled to adapt to rising global temperatures and frequent extreme weather events. That's because plants are on nature's timing, so any shifts in seasonal patterns can throw off their growth cycles. Scientists have been looking for solutions to make plants more resilient to climate shifts, and they may be closer than ever. Flowering marks when a plant shifts energy from leafy growth to seed production. While this is crucial for producing fruits and grains, it can cause leafy vegetables, such as spinach and lettuce, to lose nutritional value. Once these plants flower, they begin to die, so premature flowering can spell disaster for greens. Typically, plants need a spell of cold weather to trigger flowering, a process known as vernalization. But as these cues become less reliable due to climate change, plants may flower too early, reducing yields and nutritional quality. Reversing that process, called devernalization, has been difficult — until now. In the new research, published in Communications Biology, scientists screened more than 16,000 chemical compounds, discovering five devernalizers that reactivated the gene responsible for suppressing flowering. They also identified a sixth compound, called DVR06, which is structurally simpler than the others and enables more precise control over flowering. Experimental results showed that plants treated with DVR06 exhibited delayed flowering without hurting the plant, something current heat-based methods struggle with. "Applying heat treatment to plants in the field is both labor-intensive and costly," team lead Makoto Shirakawa, an assistant professor at the Nara Institute of Science and Technology, said in a release. "So, I was really excited when we found out that DVR06 had a more specific effect than heat treatment. This was the moment when all the time we had spent on screening finally paid off." The researchers say their discovery could be a critical breakthrough for agriculture by allowing scientists to fine-tune when crops flower, which can help boost healthy yields by undoing some of the damage of unseasonable weather. The team plans to conduct further research exploring devernalization technologies to support "stable food production under a fluctuating global environment," according to the release. What is the biggest reason you don't grow food at home? Not enough time Not enough space It seems too hard I have a garden already Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. Join our free newsletter for weekly updates on the latest innovations improving our lives and shaping our future, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
Japan Forward
21-05-2025
- Science
- Japan Forward
Women in Antarctica: Breaking Barriers in Japanese Polar Exploration
このページを 日本語 で読む The wintering team of the 65th Japanese Antarctic Research Expedition returned to Japan this spring. Among them was Manami Yamaoka, 31, a staff member in the Human Resources Division at the Nara Institute of Science and Technology (NAIST) in Ikoma, Nara Prefecture. Yamaoka spent one year and three months at Showa Station in Antarctica — an experience she describes as a continuous learning journey. As the number of women participating in polar expeditions grows, her role reflects a broader shift toward greater gender inclusion in this demanding field. She first laid eyes on the Antarctic continent in November 2023, just a month after departing Japan, more than 14,000 kilometers away. As one of 27 members of the wintering team, Yamaoka was in charge of general affairs, logistics, and supply transportation. She returned to Japan in February 2024. Manami Yamaoka joined the 65th Japanese Antarctic Research Expedition. (©Sankei by Eriko Ogawa) Life at Showa Station required self-sufficiency. Team members handled everything themselves, from cooking and hauling supplies to managing waste. "It felt like a small village just for us," Yamaoka recalled. "In Japan, there's always someone else to do these things, but not there." Despite the challenges of communal living in such an extreme environment, Yamaoka came to value the importance of clear communication and teamwork. Reflecting on her time in Antarctica, she shared a renewed sense of purpose: "I want to keep working in a way that lets me contribute to the organization in a meaningful role." Aurora observed over Amundsen Bay in Antarctica. Antarctica, a vast continent 36 times the size of Japan, isn't owned by any country. The 1959 Antarctic Treaty, signed by Japan and 11 other nations, banned military activity and set the foundation for international scientific cooperation. Today, 58 countries have signed the treaty, regularly sending research teams for scientific study. Japan began its Antarctic expeditions in 1956, carrying out ongoing research on auroras, oceans, ice, and other natural phenomena. According to the National Institute of Polar Research, the first woman joined an expedition in 1962. Since 2002, between one and 19 women have participated each year, contributing not only to research but also in roles such as doctors and meal preparation and public relations personnel. The role of women in these missions continues to expand. In December 2024, the 66th expedition departed with Professor Naomi Harada of the University of Tokyo appointed as the first female leader of a Japanese Antarctic research team. Of the 114 members, including support staff, 25 were women, the highest proportion to date at roughly 20%. "In the past, the idea of sending women wasn't even considered. There were no women's toilets or facilities," recalled a male member of the National Institute of Polar Research, who had participated in an earlier expedition. "But today, with more women in STEM fields, joining an expedition is just one of many options for women in science." While the summer team stays for about three months, the wintering team remains in Antarctica for a full year. To support women facing the challenges of this remote environment, the National Institute of Polar Research began holding pre-departure meetings for female members around six years ago. The next session is scheduled for June. Once in Antarctica, women can also consult with doctors in Japan through online medical services. Looking ahead, the 67th expedition, scheduled for dispatch this winter, will mark another first. Associate Professor Mitsumu Ejiri from the National Institute of Polar Research will become the first female leader of a wintering team. A staff member expressed optimism about the future: "If you have the motivation and interest, gender is no longer a barrier. I hope more women will take on the challenge and share their experiences with the next generation." This report was first published on J apan 2 Earth , a JAPAN Forward website featuring Japan's initiatives on the SDGs. Author: Eriko Ogawa, The Sankei Shimbun このページを 日本語 で読む
