Chemical tracking in plants
a knowledge exchange case study
A novel technique for tracking chemicals within the cellular structure of plants could dramatically improve understanding of how harmful chemicals respond within the environment.
Kevin Jones' team at Lancaster University has used the Follow-on Fund to develop a 3D visual technique that enables researchers to 'see' where a compound is and how it behaves within the plant. The technique uses the naturally occurring fluorescence in plants and chemicals, applies a visual microscopy tool TPEM (two-photon excitation microscopy) and works without altering the sample in any way.
Commercial potential could include monitoring agrochemicals within plants to help refine the formulation of chemicals, such as pesticides; monitoring agrochemicals applied to fruits and vegetables to help develop 'safer' chemicals for the food industry; and monitoring the mobility of possible contaminants in food and drink packaging.