Chinese and English scientists decipher the opium poppy genome and morphine production
Research reported by China Science Daily
On August 31, 2018 Beijing time, a team of Chinese and British scientists led by XJTU Professor Ye Kai published a paper in Science, in which the entire genome sequence of the opium poppy was first displayed in high-quality, and the mystery of morphine production was revealed.
The opium poppy is a special entity inducing mixed feelings of love and hate to humans. It has gorgeous flower, and the fruits can be used to produce chemicals with analgesic, antitussive and even anti-cancer effects. However, it is also known as the source of the drug morphine. The complicity of opium poppy lies in its molecules. A great number (about 70%) of repetitive sequences were found in its genome, while the trace of large-scale structural variations were also discovered in the genome, making the genome deciphering of opium poppy a world wide problem to scientists.
-
XJTU helps make 'brain control' reality
April 07,2024
-
New technology provides long-term stable energy source for wearable devices
April 01,2024
-
XJTU team makes breakthroughs in biotechnology
March 22,2024
-
Cherry blossom festival kicks off in XJTU
March 31, 2024