Research
Feb. 13, 2025
Discovering a clue to what causes reproductive complications
Ahmed Balboula Our cells constantly receive DNA damage from factors such as ultraviolet rays, irradiations, toxins and chemicals. For women, that can lead to poor egg quality, which in turn can cause infertility, miscarriage, birth defects or genetic disorders. Researchers at the University of Missouri are now working to better understand a process that can help repair that damage. In a recent study, a team led by Ahmed Balboula, an assistant professor in the College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources (CAFNR) and researcher at the Roy Blunt NextGen Precision Health building, is studying a process known as autophagy. The…
Feb. 13, 2025
Boosting a plant’s protective forces
Sonawane’s discovery unlocks the door to a wide variety of future opportunities for genetically modified plants and biocontrol agents that ultimately strengthen crops’ protection against pests and pathogens. Photos by Abbie Lankitus. Plants produce special molecules that act like natural pesticides to help defend themselves against pests. Unfortunately, they don’t make enough of these molecules, leaving plants vulnerable to pests such as the Colorado potato beetle, which can result in damaged crops and economic losses for farmers. Now, researchers at the University of Missouri may have found a solution. In a recent study, scientists discovered that a scaffold protein —…
Feb. 12, 2025
University of Missouri Board of Curators honors former Gov. Mike Parson with naming of new meat sciences lab
The facility will offer additional education and workforce development opportunities to contribute to one of Missouri’s largest industries.
Feb. 11, 2025
CAFNR researchers develop new genetic defense against costly soybean pest
Soybean cyst nematodes (SCN) cost American farmers an estimated $2 billion in yield losses each year. Since the pest’s discovery in 1954, plant scientists have worked to combat its destructive impact. Now, researchers at the University of Missouri are on the verge of a breakthrough in SCN resistance technology. “We are at the point now where we have a gene identified that we believe contains a new resistance to SCN, and, hopefully, this will lead to a new breakthrough,” said Sushil Chhapekar, post-doctoral fellow in the College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources’ Division of Plant Science and Technology. Sushil…
Feb. 5, 2025
Mizzou expert predicts Super Bowl menu price hikes, but savvy shoppers can score deals
Mizzou researcher Hoa Hoang offers expert tips for creating the perfect game day spread on a budget.
Feb. 5, 2025
A protein at the heart of heart disease
Mizzou researchers discover the structure of a protein that could lead to more targeted heart disease treatments.
Feb. 5, 2025
Plant Sciences and Technology faculty member recognized for early career contributions by Universities Council on Water Resources
Gurbir Singh, assistant professor and state Extension specialist in soil science, agroecology and landscape management, was recently named as the recipient of the 2025 Early Career Award for Extension, Outreach and Engagement by the Universities Council on Water Resources (UCOWR). Gurbir Singh The UCOWR Early Career Award for Extension, Outreach, Engagement recognizes outstanding early contributions through extension, outreach and engagement activities related to water. Awardees have a significant record of accomplishment in these areas and show promise of continued professional growth and recognition. Singh will be recognized at an awards luncheon during the UCOWR annual conference in June.
Jan. 31, 2025
CAFNR plant scientist’s curiosity sparks global collaboration for sustainable fashion
A spark of curiosity about sustainable materials has taken Jaime Barros-Rios, a Mizzou plant scientist, far beyond his usual work with model plants, soybeans, and corn. Today, he’s collaborating with a marine biologist and a New York City fashion innovator on a project that could revolutionize working conditions and sustainability in the global textile industry. Barros-Rios’s journey began at Scialog, a unique interdisciplinary conference organized by the Research Corporation for Science and Advancement. The conference name — a combination of “science” and “dialog” — reflects its mission: bringing together scientists from different fields to foster collaboration on innovative solutions. Jaime…
Jan. 23, 2025
Foremost Dairy staff honored with Driver to Distinction award
CAFNR Vice Chancellor and Dean Christopher Daubert honored the Foremost Dairy farm staff with the Driver to Distinction award. Daubert acknowledged the significant advancements occurring at the dairy and expressed gratitude to the staff for their commitment and effort in furthering the land-grant mission as implemented through Foremost Dairy. The honorees included: Adam Shetley, farm manager; Joe Ancell, dairy worker; Will Tackett, dairy worker; Drew Edwards, research specialist; and Maria Poock, dairy worker. Others in attendance were State Rep. Adrian Plank; CAFNR Associate Dean Shibu Jose; Central Missouri Research, Extension and Education Center (REEC) Assistant Director for Livestock Josh Peak…
Jan. 16, 2025
Center for Agroforestry to host 16th Annual Symposium
The University of Missouri’s Center for Agroforestry is holding its 16th Agroforestry Symposium: Working Lands for Restoration and Harvest on Jan. 30 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the center for Missouri Studies in Columbia, Mo.