Students searching for the blue pigment genes in the cornflower

Chiara, Julia, and Vlad, three students of TU Braunschweig, aim to research the underlying principles of flower coloration. They are using the cornflower with its vibrant blue color as a model. Typically, the blue color is generated by compounds called anthocyanins and the correct pH level within the cell. In the cornflower, the blue molecule forms through metal ions combined with red and yellow pigments. To better understand this mechanism, they plan to transfer the pigment genes into other plants and investigate under which conditions the blue color complex of the cornflower also appears in other plants. Color pigments also provide protection against external influences, which in turn leads to more resistance plants. One existing problem is the early detection of diseases in plants whose harvest material is underground (e.g., potatoes, carrots, beets). By using a biomarker, which in this case is the blue color adopted by the plant, certain diseases could be detected early and treated accordingly. A considerable amount of research has already been conducted, initial contacts made with experts, and plants bred for the planned experiments.

The research group "Plant Biotechnology and Bioinformatics" provides them with the facilities. However, they need additional materials, including extraction kits for RNA and DNA, pipette tips, sample vessels, as well as specific materials and further funds for sequencing. In total, they still lack about 1,300 euros to complete the experiments. Since it is an independent project, they also need funds to finance travel expenses to conferences. This provide them the opportunity to present their independently developed project to experts and gain additional insights into the world of research. The project is being carried out independently by the students to achieve maximum learning effects. It enables them with opportunities to generate valuable expertise that they would not normally acquire. Additionally, they aim to provide insights into biological research to students by presenting the project in schools and conducting joint experiments. In this way, they want to contribute to promoting understanding and enthusiasm for scientific research.