Scientists from the Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology of the Russian Academy of Sciences and the AA Kharkevich Institute for Problems of Information Transmission have found that the number of genes in the genome of hogweed (a poisonous invasive plant) is twice the average for most other plants. . This discovery will allow us to identify bioactive molecules that could increase the effectiveness of skin disease treatment. The Russian Science Foundation (RSF) reported this to socialbites.ca.
Sosnowsky bluegrass (Heracleum sosnowskyi) is a plant that has spread far beyond its natural habitat in the North Caucasus, posing a serious threat to ecosystems and human health. Its juice contains dangerous toxins that increase the sensitivity of the skin and mucous membranes to ultraviolet radiation. Physical contact with crabgrass leaves and stems can cause burns and irritation to human skin.
Using a sequencer (a device for reading DNA), scientists found that the bluegrass genome contains more than 55 thousand genes. Most plants have between 25 and 35 thousand of them. Most likely, the reason for such a large number of genes was their numerous doublings (duplications). This means that many genes have more than one extra copy.
This unique property of wild herb may open new perspectives in medicine and pharmacology. Knowing the genomic features of this plant will allow us to identify and study unique bioactive molecules that can be used to create new drugs and therapeutic approaches in the treatment of skin diseases.
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