UWisc researcher modifies GA to produce compacter trees for feedstock

In Wisconsin, a researcher at the University of Wisconsin is exploring how genetic modification may be utilized to enhance various traits in trees for forestry and biofuel applications. Among these modification targets are gibberellic acid and lignin. Gibberellic acid (GA) is a plant hormone that promotes cell elongation but may be down-regulated to produce more compact trees. The benefits of compact trees are reduced risk of wind damage and amenability to dense propagation. Lignin is a structural component of cell walls and a barrier against insect pests and pathogens. The structural durability of lignin inhibits access to cellulose during pulp and biofuel processing, but modification of content and composition can make lignin more hydrolysable. Despite these benefits, modification of GA levels or lignin content and composition may also affect plant traits employed as defense against insect herbivores.