Making plants more productive

It’s estimated that by 2050, the global population could reach 9 billion. With limited natural resources, feeding, clothing and providing materials to support that many people will be challenging. In Federica Brandizzi’s lab at Michigan State University, she and her colleagues are finding ways to make plants part of the solution.

“A way to sustain human life ultimately is to understand how we can improve plants,” she says.

Brandizzi, MSU Foundation Professor of plant biology, and her team have produced technology that allows plants to grow bigger and more productive. By modifying the cell wall, the plants are less restricted in their growth.

“I’m extremely proud of the work we’re doing,” Brandizzi says. “I’m extremely proud of my people and it’s this pride that takes me to work every day because I know I can make a big impact in the world. I know that with my effort, and the effort on my team, I can change the world.”

See how Spartan excellence and will to make a difference are making a better tomorrow for all: