Synthetic biology startup Light Bio announced that it has begun selling its bioluminescent petunias in the United States after receiving approval from the USDA. This was made possible by building upon previous research for creating continuously glowing plants by inserting DNA obtained from mushrooms.
There is a surprising similarity between mushroom bioluminescence and plant metabolism that allows for more visible light than was previously thought possible. The luminescence in plants is entirely self-sustaining thanks to the metabolic synergy, thus enabling perpetual illumination without any external aid. However, the researchers did find that petunias provided the brightest bioluminescence, especially in the flower buds. Starting in April, you’ll be able to buy one of these plants for $29 USD direct from Light Bio.
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This milestone—and the magical experience we are bringing to people across the country—has been decades in the making. As part of the scientific team that discovered the bioluminescence genes from fireflies, I helped create the first glowing plant in 1986 which has inspired scientists worldwide. In the forty-odd years since, we have discovered a new bioluminescence technology that now allows us to bring these delightful plants to consumers,” said Keith Wood, CEO of Light Bio.
