Case 2017-160
UCLA researchers in the Department of Molecular, Cell, and Developmental Biology have discovered new species of plant probiotic bacteria to enhance plant growth for agricultural purposes.
BACKGROUND
The ability to increase the growth of plants is critical to both the horticultural and agricultural industries because increased yield, resulting from increased plant productivity, yields improved economic benefit. The use of biofertilizers (plant growth-promoting bacteria) reduces the use of chemical fertilizers not only saving money, but also creating an environmental benefit by reducing pollution. Recent research showed that bacteria that colonize the roots and nodules of legumes have great potential as plant probiotic bacteria (PPBs). Efforts to identify and isolate these strains will be invaluable in generating new biofertilizers for plant agriculture and horticulture.
INNOVATION
UCLA researchers led by Prof. Ann Hirsch has discovered bacteria that act as biofertilizers. The identified species have demonstrated ability to provide important nutrients to the roots of model plant organisms (e.g. siderophores, and nitrogen and phosphorous sources). Additionally, plants grown in the presence of these identified PPBs have enhanced growth parameters.
ADVANTAGES
STATE OF DEVELOPMENT
Initial pilot studies have demonstrated enhanced plant growth parameters