Plant roots can become protein factories

HOUSTON, Oct. 8 (UPI) -- U.S. researchers have used genetically-altered plant roots to make proteins, establishing a promising new approach to drug development.

Professor Ka-Yiu San and colleagues from Rice University in Houston inserted a specific gene into a soil bacterium that then infected the root of a periwinkle plant. The scientists discovered the plant developed a system of specialized roots that could be cultured to make limitless supplies of desired proteins.

The researchers believe their technique will eventually allow roots to produce medicines, food flavorings, and other commercial products.

The study is to appear in the November-December issue of the journal Biotechnology Progress.