Scientists from Kansas State University have engineered camelina and pennycress seeds to produce nearly pure specialized oils, potentially enhancing biofuel production. Plants store energy as oils in their seeds, which can be transformed into biofuels. Some plants, like the burning bush, produce oils ideal for biofuels but are unsuitable for large-scale cultivation.
To tackle this challenge, researchers modified camelina and pennycress to produce oils similar to those of the burning bush. Both crops are more suitable for large-scale biofuel production. Oil from the burning bush flows easily and remains liquid at lower temperatures, making it an excellent biofuel option.
By introducing a gene from the burning bush into camelina and pennycress, scientists created plants that generate high-quality oil with improved biofuel properties. This research may lead to reduced biofuel production costs and enhanced performance, such as easier flow and stability in cold temperatures.
Moreover, this work illustrates the potential of genetic tools to improve crops for biofuels and other industrial uses. Farmers could grow these enhanced plants on land unsuitable for food crops, creating new income opportunities and supporting rural economies.
Most plant oils consist of triacylglycerols, which have three fatty acids linked to a glycerol backbone. However, some species produce different oils with unique structures, such as acetyl-triacylglycerol (acetyl-TAG) found in the burning bush. Acetyl-TAG has two fatty acids and a short acetate group, reducing viscosity and lowering freezing points, making it advantageous for various applications.
To achieve large-scale production, researchers engineered camelina and pennycress to produce acetyl-TAG in their seeds. They used genome editing techniques to enhance acetyl-TAG accumulation without harming seed viability, showcasing the potential of advanced genetic engineering for biofuel and industrial applications.
This research received funding from various organizations, including the U.S. Department of Energy and the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
