What is Plant Molecular Biology?

Plant molecular biology is the study of plants at DNA, RNA, and protein level.

Using powerful molecular biotechnology techniques, plants can be analysed to elucidate their unique characteristics. Once this is understood, plants can be genetically altered to create 'designer plants' (i.e. GMOs) suited to specific needs, such as long-shelf-life tomatoes, and disease resistance. The extensive genetic diversity that exists in plant populations enables the identification of DNA changes (i.e. genetic mutations) responsible for quantitative and qualitative variation in traits of interest, information that will be useful in plant breeding programmes.

It is however imperative that the physiology and biochemistry of the plant must also be understood.

Should you choose to study the wonder world of plant molecular biology, you will experience a challenging and fascinating field of research.