Sun Valley, ID - March 8, 2024 – Recent discoveries published in Science Advances have unveiled a native plant gene that enables researchers to more effortlessly harness the captivating glow of bioluminescent plants. This gene, which varies across different plant species, allows for the redirection of living energy into organic light. The advancement reveals the intricate inner rhythms and dynamics of plants through continuously evolving luminosity, offering a natural source of illumination for homes, gardens, and beyond.
The study received support from Light Bio, a pioneer in the development of bioluminescent plants. Light Bio is dedicated to fostering greater connection and enjoyment of plants through the enchanting appeal of living light.
The latest research builds upon earlier findings, showing that the natural glow of luminous mushrooms aligns seamlessly with central metabolic processes in plants. Utilizing a gene native to plants further amplifies this bioluminescent harmony, optimizing the interplay between light production and energy utilization.
Prior approaches for creating bioluminescent plants involved incorporating five genes derived from fungi. In the new findings, a solitary gene indigenous to plants can effectively substitute for two of the fungal genes. The plant gene's compact size and simpler biological requirements enhance its versatility for diverse applications.
The compact gene plays a pivotal role, acting as a bridge between plant metabolism and light production. This connection allows the plant's inner dynamics to be translated into a constantly changing spectacle of natural light.
Bioluminescent plants have garnered immense popularity among the public. Light Bio recently began taking orders for a bioluminescent petunia under the brand Firefly™ Petunia, so named because the bright buds resemble fireflies. The petunia emits a soft glow similar to moonlight.
Keith Wood, the CEO of Light Bio, reports that the Firefly Petunia is selling fast. He says that "sales for this remarkable plant have been impressively robust. We've had to ramp up production twice already to keep pace with the demand."
The company selected the petunia as its inaugural offering due to its popularity as an ornamental plant. Light Bio recently announced that their plants glow up to 100 times brighter than previously possible, with the petunia standing out as the most radiant. Known for their ease of cultivation and prolific flowering, petunias make an ideal choice for this innovative enhancement.
In September, following an independent review, the USDA concluded that the Firefly Petunia is safe for cultivation and breeding across the United States. Available for purchase at $29 USD per plant from Light Bio's website (www.light.bio), the petunia is set to start shipping in April to all 48 contiguous US states.
In partnership with Ginkgo Bioworks, Light Bio envisions future plants to be at least ten times brighter, with an expanded range of varieties and colors. Beyond the sheer delight these luminous plants provide, the foundational science offers profound insights into plant molecular physiology. The collaborative teams are confident that discoveries from this research will lead to significant progress in essential fields such as crop development and disease resistance.
