Planting fungi in crops triggers production of beneficial compounds - researchers take a step toward a new era in agriculture

Scientists have achieved a breakthrough by implanting a fungus known for its insect-killing prowess into rapeseed plants, resulting in the production of specific defense compounds. This discovery holds the potential to revolutionize agriculture, ushering in an era where ecological impact is minimized, and food production is secured.

Led by researchers at the University of Turku, the study revealed that a naturally occurring soil fungus with insecticidal properties could be successfully introduced into rapeseed plants, leading to the synthesis of certain defense compounds within the plant's cells.