Improving Rubisco

Rubisco is the enzyme that drives photosynthesis, fixing carbon dioxide into sugar that fuels all of the plant's activities. Our scientists use physiological, biochemical, and molecular analyses to survey a wide range of cowpea varieties and wild-relatives to identify better forms of Rubisco. Models suggest that faster Rubisco activation could increase crop productivity by as much as 20 percent. 

  • Watch the video below to learn more about this work and the importance of partnering with cowpea breeders and producers from our team members at Lancaster University.
  • Check out the Lancaster photosynthesis team's website for their latest news and updates. 


Carl Bernacchi
Kamel Chibani_Headshot
Peter Gould headshot
Muhammad Waqas Khokhar headshot
Doug Orr
Rhiannon Page
Michael Page
Rabindranath Paul_Headshot
Alice Robijns
Balaji Selvam
Diwakar
Samuel Taylor
Picture of wheat

Scientists unlocking heat-tolerant wheat

Researchers working on molecular-level responses in crops have taken a step closer to their goal of producing heat-tolerant wheat.

By: Katy Askew || FoodNavigator

Cowpea thumbnail

Fickle sunshine slows down Rubisco and limits photosynthetic productivity of crops

Researchers from Lancaster University are working to improve the sustainable productivity of key crops in sub-Saharan Africa have discovered a new imperfection in the way Rubisco functions in cowpea and believe this imperfection is likely shared with other crops.

Three researchers pose next to wheat in a glasshouse.

Scientists take a step closer to heat-tolerant wheat

Researchers found out how to trigger photosynthesis more efficiently at higher temperatures in wheat.

soybeans

Hacking evolution, screening technique may improve most widespread enzyme

Scientists have developed tools to simulate millions of years of evolution in days to help plants adapt to changing conditions.