Molecular Plant Science and Genetics
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The understanding and development
of plant sciences for the advancement of
humankind continues as one of the greatest scientific
opportunities of our world. As one of the largest and
most distinguished multidisciplinary programs in the
country,
molecular plant science at WSU focuses on fundamental
research in molecular biology, physiology, and
biochemistry that has applications in forestry and
agricultural biotechnology. From the development of new
pharmaceuticals to fight cancer to applications of
biotechnology tools to improve agricultural commodities
of importance to the state, nation, and world, plant
science research has enormous promise for improving the
quality of life of people in all circumstances worldwide.
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Professor Rodney Croteau, a fellow
in WSU’s Institute of Biological Chemistry
and member of the National Academy of Sciences, and
his research team, have developed and licensed
plant cell cultures for the biosynthesis of taxol,
which is used in cancer treatments. This work
stands to impact the health of millions of women
worldwide by ensuring an ongoing supply of the
drug, which currently is produced by harvesting the
slow-growing Yew tree. Read
more. |
Areas of research preeminence
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