Tougher Plants

Beating Stress by Protecting Photosynthesis in Genetically Modified Plants

Co Authors:	Robin Pals-Rylaarsdam Department of Biological Science Benedictine University rrylaarsdam@ben.edu Monica L. Tischler Department of Biological Science Bendectine University mtischler@ben.edu
Abstract:	Two recent college graduates search for scientific reasons as to why the plants on their new tomato farm are not doing well. Working with their agricultural extension agent, they explore the scientific literature and learn how cold, heat, and salt can stress plants. They also learn that plants genetically engineered to produce glycine betaine, a modified amino acid, can withstand the environmental conditions that stress many agricultural plants. In their explorations, the fledgling farmers read graphs from the primary literature and review photosynthetic processes from their introductory biology course. The case was developed for a first-year class in biology. It could be used in any lower-level college biology class or potentially an advanced biology class in high school. The case is also accompanied by an optional PowerPoint presentation (see "Supplemental Materials" tab above).
Objectives:	Introduce primary sources of biological information. Begin to read and interpret basic graphs. Connect the primary literature to basic biology processes. Reinforce the steps of photosynthesis, particularly the light-dependent reactions.
Keywords:	Genetic engineering; genetically modified organism: GMO; chemiosmosis; photosynthesis; photosytem II; proton motive force; transmembrane protein; thylakoid; glycine betaine ; graph reading; data analysis
Topical Area:	N/A
Educational Level:	High school, Undergraduate lower division
Formats:	PDF, PowerPoint
Type/Method:	Clicker, Interrupted, Journal Article
Language:	English
Subject Headings:	Biology (General) Biotechnology Botany / Plant Science Agriculture
Date Posted:	10/23/2012
Date Modified:	N/A
Copyright:	Copyright held by the National Center for Case Study Teaching in Science, University at Buffalo, State University of New York. Please see our usage guidelines, which outline our policy concerning permissible reproduction of this work.

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