Boyce Thompson Institute For Plant Research Inc

Research tools & communications: bti scientists advance, communicate, and apply plant research towards the advancement of scientific knowledge. Virtually every day, scientists discover and record a staggering amount of new information about the genes, proteins and chemicals that direct the development of cells. Bti researchers also are continually developing new techniques for laboratory research. Bti scientists are developing innovative software and databases, enabling researchers to better organize, access and retrieve a wealth of data, isolate and identify specific genes controlling the specific life processes and identify molecules with potential evolutionary, biological and medical importances. Bti scientists also develop new research protocols for transforming plants with genes of interest to discover their functions.

Improved human health: institute scientists advance, communicate, and apply plant science and related research towards improved human health. Current research at bti may lead to an increase in our understanding of human diseases such as diabetes, alzheimer's disease and aging-related diseases. Bti researchers develop cell lines in plants and insects that can be used to manufacture therapeutics, diagnostics, and vaccines. Institute research also may lead to more nutritious foods to combat vitamin deficiencies and less pesticide use to reduce human exposure to harmful chemicals. Bti scientists also study how plants produce pharmaceutically active compounds and may lead to new sources of natural ways to combat conditions like heart disease.

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