Sugars produced in leaves via photosynthesis are transported to harvestable portions (e.g. grains, tubers) as well as other parts of a plant. Researchers from the Carnegie Institution for Science (USA) the Max Planck Institute of Molecular Plant Physiology (Germany) have identified a molecular pump responsible for the transport of sugars. The discovery of hitherto unknown protein in cell membranes effecting pumping of sugars could help plants to protect against pests and diseases and increase harvest yields. The findings reported in the 8 December ’11 issue of Science Express. Vascular pathways consisting of interconnected cells act as a system for the… Login to continue

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