Modify something that can be sprinkled on the garden to purify the air during forest fires. Is this even possible? - Your Published Bio Team Output

Bioteam
**Pre-Project**Yes, it is possible to modify something that can be sprinkled on the garden to purify the air during forest fires. One endogenous pathway that might be useful to modify is the terpenoid biosynthesis pathway in plants. Terpenoids are natural compounds produced by many plants that have the ability to absorb and neutralize pollutants in the air. By increasing the production of terpenoids in plants, we could potentially enhance their ability to purify the air during forest fires.

For a pathway from a different species, the arachidonic acid metabolism pathway in some species of fungi could be useful to import. Arachidonic acid and its derivatives have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which could help to reduce the harmful effects of smoke and pollutants in the air. Importing this pathway from a species of fungi that is suitable for growth in garden soil could potentially provide an additional layer of protection for the plants and the surrounding environment.

To achieve these modifications, we would need to investigate the specific genes and enzymes involved in the terpenoid biosynthesis pathway in plants and the arachidonic acid metabolism pathway in fungi. We would then need to identify suitable plant and fungal species, and possibly specific subspecies or varieties that are best suited for these modifications. Once identified, we could potentially use techniques such as genetic engineering or selective breeding to enhance or import these pathways. Additionally, we would need to test the efficacy and safety of any modified plants or fungi before implementing them in a real-world scenario.

**Genes:** Selected Genes for Modification:

1. Terpene Synthase Genes: Terpenes are volatile organic compounds that are synthesized by terpene synthase genes in plants. These compounds have been found to absorb pollutants such as ozone and nitrogen dioxide. By introducing or overexpressing these genes into plants, we can enhance terpene production and increase their capacity to purify the air during forest fires.

2. Glutathione S-transferase Genes (GSTs): GSTs catalyze the conjugation of toxins with glutathione, which aids in their excretion from the system. By overexpressing GSTs in plants, we can enhance the detoxification capabilities of the plants and reduce the harmful effects of smoke and pollutants in the air.

3. Peroxidase Genes: Peroxidases are enzymes that play a crucial role in the detoxification of reactive oxygen species and peroxides. By overexpressing these genes in plants, we can enhance their antioxidative defenses and reduce oxidative damage caused by air pollutants.

4. Cyanobacterial Nitrogenase Gene: Nitrogen-fixing bacteria such as cyanobacteria have been found to enhance plant growth and nitrogen content in the soil. By introducing the nitrogenase gene from cyanobacteria into plants, we can enhance their growth and increase the fertility of the soil, which can further aid in the purification of air during forest fires.

5. Catalase Genes: Catalase is another enzyme that plays a crucial role in the detoxification of reactive oxygen species and hydrogen peroxide. By overexpressing these genes in plants, we can enhance their antioxidative defenses and reduce oxidative damage caused by air pollutants.

Targeted Crispr and RNAi:

To introduce these modifications into plants, we could use CRISPR/Cas9 technology to edit specific genes in the genome of the plant. Alternatively, RNA interference (RNAi) can be used to inhibit the expression of specific genes. Both these techniques are extremely precise and can be used to directly target the desired genes. By using these methods, we can introduce the desired modifications with minimal impact on the natural genome of the plant.

**Regulatory Elements:** As for something that can be sprinkled on the garden to purify the air during forest fires, one option could be activated carbon particles. These particles have a large surface area and are capable of adsorbing a wide range of volatile organic compounds and other air pollutants. When sprinkled on the garden, they can capture pollutants and prevent them from entering the surrounding air. However, it is important to note that activated carbon particles are not a complete solution and should be used in conjunction with other measures such as proper ventilation and air filtration systems. Additionally, the effectiveness of activated carbon particles may vary depending on the concentration and composition of pollutants in the air. Therefore, it is important to consult with experts and follow recommended guidelines when using any air purification strategies during forest fires.

**Vector & Delivery:** As an AI language model, I do not have personal views or preferences, but I can suggest a few delivery and modification methods for the chosen genes, based on scientific literature. One possible vector for the gene delivery is Agrobacterium tumefaciens, which is a soil bacterium that has the natural ability to introduce foreign DNA into plants. Another delivery method is biolistic transformation, which involves shooting DNA-coated particles into the plant tissue using a gene gun. Both these methods have been successfully used to modify plant genomes in various studies.

As for the regulatory element to be sprinkled on the garden, activated carbon particles seem like a feasible option, as they have been extensively studied for air purification applications. However, the amount and distribution of the particles may need to be optimized to achieve the desired air purification effect, and their long-term impact on soil quality should also be assessed. Overall, the chosen vector and delivery method can optimize the genetic modifications by ensuring targeted and efficient gene delivery, while the chosen regulatory element can complement the plant-based air purification system.

**Selection Marker:** If a selection marker is deemed needed for this project we will use a fluorescence marker such as green fluorescent protein (GFP), which is frequently used as a visual marker in plant transformation studies. GFP can be easily detected using a fluorescence microscope, which allows for the visualization of successfully transformed plant cells and tissues. This marker can facilitate the selection and identification of successfully modified organisms, helping to confirm the success of the plant transformation and aiding downstream analyses.

**Transformation Protocol:** Protocol for Transforming Species with Selected Genes:

Materials:

- Agrobacterium tumefaciens containing the desired vector with the selected gene(s) and the GFP selection marker
- Liquid LB media containing appropriate antibiotics for Agrobacterium tumefaciens selection
- Plant tissue for transformation (e.g., leaf discs or cotyledons)
- Acetosyringone solution (100 μM)
- Co-cultivation medium (e.g., MS medium supplemented with 100 μM acetosyringone)
- Selection medium (e.g., MS medium supplemented with appropriate antibiotics for selection and 2 mg/L BAP)
- Activated carbon particles

Equipment:

- Sterile pipettes, tips, and tubes
- Centrifuge
- Laminar flow hood
- Fluorescence microscope
- Gene gun (if using biolistic transformation)

Procedure:

1. Prepare Agrobacterium tumefaciens containing the desired vector with selected gene(s) and GFP selection marker by culturing it overnight in liquid LB medium containing appropriate antibiotics for selection.

2. In a laminar flow hood, prepare plant tissue (e.g., leaf discs or cotyledons) for transformation using appropriate sterilization procedures.

3. Pellet and resuspend Agrobacterium tumefaciens in the co-cultivation medium.

4. Add plant tissue to the Agrobacterium tumefaciens co-cultivation medium and incubate at room temperature for 30 minutes to 2 hours.

5. Place the tissue on selection medium and incubate at 25-28°C under proper growth conditions.

6. After 2-3 weeks, select for GFP-positive tissues using a fluorescence microscope.

7. Confirm gene expression by quantitative PCR or Western blot.

8. If using biolistic transformation instead of Agrobacterium tumefaciens, coat gold or tungsten particles with the selected gene and GFP marker, and shoot them into the plant tissue using a gene gun.

9. Sprinkle activated carbon particles on the soil to capture pollutants during forest fires.

Precautions:

- Strict sterile techniques should be used throughout the experiment to avoid contamination.
- The concentration and distribution of activated carbon particles should be optimized for maximum air purification while considering any potential long-term effects on soil quality.
- Proper safety protocols should be followed when using fluorescent markers or other potentially hazardous materials.

**Gene cassette**: The 5' to 3' list of elements in the multi-purpose cassette suitable for cloning into the chosen vector using Agrobacterium tumefaciens or biolistic transformation are as follows:

1. 5' cloning site (e.g. PstI)
2. Promoter sequence for constitutive gene expression (e.g. CaMV 35S promoter)
3. Terpene Synthase gene
4. Linker sequence (e.g. 6x His tag)
5. Glutathione S-transferase gene
6. Linker sequence (e.g. 6x His tag)
7. Peroxidase gene
8. Linker sequence (e.g. 6x His tag)
9. Cyanobacterial Nitrogenase gene
10. Linker sequence (e.g. 6x His tag)
11. Catalase gene
12. 3' cloning site (e.g. NotI)
13. Selection marker (e.g. GFP)
14. Terminator sequence (e.g. Nos terminator)

The cassette can be designed to allow for the sequential expression of the genes using multiple cloning sites and promoters, or all the genes can be under the control of a single promoter. The cassette includes a selection marker for identifying and selecting transformed plant cells, and a terminator sequence to ensure proper transcription termination. The linker sequences with a 6x His tag can allow for easy purification of these modified enzymes, and their characterization using techniques such as Western Blotting. Lastly, the cassette is flanked by the appropriate restriction enzyme sites for cloning into the desired vector via Agrobacterium tumefaciens or biolistic transformation.

**Paper Abstract:** In this project, we aim to enhance the air purification capabilities of plants during forest fires by modifying their genomes. We have selected a set of genes, including terpene synthase genes, glutathione S-transferase genes, peroxidase genes, cyanobacterial nitrogenase gene, and catalase genes, which have been found to enhance the detoxification and antioxidative defenses of plants. To introduce these modifications, we will use targeted gene editing techniques such as CRISPR/Cas9 or RNAi, which can precisely target and modify the desired genes. As for the regulatory element to enhance air purification, we suggest using activated carbon particles, which have a large surface area and can adsorb a wide range of volatile organic compounds and other air pollutants. We will deliver the modified genes using Agrobacterium tumefaciens or biolistic transformation, which have been successfully used in plant transformation studies. Finally, we will use a fluorescence marker such as green fluorescent protein (GFP) to confirm successful transformation and aid downstream analyses. Overall, this project can potentially provide a sustainable and natural solution to air purification during forest fires, contributing to improved air quality and environmental health.

**Growth, Selection & Stabilization:** Optimal Conditions for Growth and Selection:

1. Terpene Synthase Genes: The optimal conditions for the growth and selection of plants modified with terpene synthase genes would vary depending on the plant species used. However, in general, the plants should be grown under conditions that promote healthy growth and stress resistance. This can include providing sufficient water, nutrients, and light, as well as protecting the plants from pests and pathogens. During selection, plants that show enhanced terpene production can be identified and propagated.

2. Glutathione S-transferase Genes (GSTs): Plants modified with GST genes should be grown under optimal growth conditions, similar to those described above. During selection, plants that show enhanced detoxification capability can be identified using various assays that test for the presence of specific toxins or by analyzing the levels of GST enzymes in the plant tissues.

3. Peroxidase Genes: The growth conditions for plants modified with peroxidase genes would be similar to those described above, with a focus on stress tolerance and antioxidative defense. During selection, plants that show enhanced peroxidase activity can be identified using various assays, such as measuring the levels of reactive oxygen species or peroxides in the plant tissues.

4. Cyanobacterial Nitrogenase Gene: Plants modified with nitrogenase genes should be grown under optimal conditions for nitrogen fixation, which typically include maintaining a high humidity and providing sufficient nutrients, particularly including nitrogen. During selection, plants that show enhanced growth and nitrogen fixation can be identified by analyzing their tissue nitrogen content or by using nitrogen fixation assays.

5. Catalase Genes: The growth conditions for plants modified with catalase genes would be similar to those described above, with a focus on antioxidative defense. During selection, plants that show enhanced catalase activity can be identified using various assays, such as measuring the levels of reactive oxygen species or hydrogen peroxide in the plant tissues.

Stabilization Protocol:

To stabilize the modified organisms, we can take several measures. One important step is to maintain the plants under optimal growth conditions, which includes providing them with sufficient nutrients, light, and water while protecting them from pests and pathogens. It is also important to maintain genetic stability by preventing any unintended mutations or genetic drift that could compromise the functionality of the modified genes. This can be achieved by carefully monitoring and controlling the growth conditions and by periodically screening the plants for genetic stability. Finally, it is important to ensure that the modified plants do not have any adverse impact on the environment or other organisms. This can be achieved by conducting appropriate risk assessments and following relevant regulations and guidelines, such as those set by environmental protection agencies. Overall, a comprehensive stabilization protocol would aim to ensure the long-term stability, functionality, and safety of the modified organisms.

**Proliferation Method:** To proliferate the final transformants once stabilized, we can grow them in ideal environmental conditions. The plants can be grown in a controlled environment with optimal temperature, humidity, and light conditions. This can include growth chambers or greenhouses that provide the necessary conditions for the plants to thrive. It is also important to select the optimal growth medium to support the growth of the plants. This can include the appropriate nutrients and growth factors to ensure maximum growth and health of the plants.

To maintain the desired genetic modifications in the resulting population, we can use techniques such as PCR analysis to confirm the presence of the modified genes in the plant genome. We can also perform phenotypic analyses such as measuring the concentration of terpenes or glutathione levels to confirm the expression of the introduced genes or overexpression of the native genes.

To ensure efficient proliferation of the final transformants, we can use clonal propagation techniques such as cutting or tissue culture to ensure that the progeny plants have the same genetic modifications as the parent plant. This can ensure that the desired traits are maintained throughout subsequent generations. Moreover, the use of a selection marker such as GFP can help to track the successful transformation of the plants and ensure that the selected transformants are used for further breeding and propagation.

In conclusion, optimal growth conditions, confirmation of the desired genetic modifications, and clonal propagation techniques can ensure efficient proliferation and maintenance of the desired genetic modifications in the resulting population.

**Conclusion:** In summary, this project focuses on enhancing plants' air purification capabilities during forest fires by modifying their genomes. The selected genes, including terpene synthase genes, glutathione S-transferase genes, peroxidase genes, cyanobacterial nitrogenase gene, and catalase genes, have been found to enhance plants' detoxification and antioxidative defenses. The regulatory element suggested to achieve this is activated carbon particles which are used to absorb pollutants. The project proposes using targeted gene editing techniques like CRISPR/Cas9, Agrobacterium tumefaciens, or biolistic transformation to insert the selected genes. The growth conditions, selection protocols, and clonal propagation techniques have been discussed for each of the selected genes to ensure genetic stability and successful proliferation. Lastly, a multi-purpose cassette suitable for cloning the chosen genes into the desired vector using Agrobacterium tumefaciens or biolistic transformation has been provided, including a selection marker, a terminator sequence, and linker sequences with a 6x His tag. The proposed technology can provide a sustainable and natural solution for air purification during forest fires. Future work includes conducting risk assessments and regulatory compliance testing to ensure environmental safety. Lastly, further research can be done to explore the potential application of this project in improving the air quality of polluted cities, protecting crops from pests and pathogens, among other applications.