80 researchers from 30 institutions from 18 different countries have collaborated in this project for 5 years, which aimed to sequence the genome of the so-called “rubber trees” or eucalyptus .
The team of researchers, led by Zander Myburg from the University of Pretoria (South Africa), has analyzed the more than 36,000 genes (640 million base pairs) found in this fast-growing tree, the “Eucalyptus grandis” .
This achievement in genetics will serve to generate more quantity and also better quality of wood, fibers and celluloses that could sustain the bioeconomy of the future thanks to the fact that this species of tree, despite being native to Australia, is very adaptable and can be planted anywhere Place of the world.
After sequencing the eucalyptus genome, experts hope to be able to apply the same technology to other woody plants so that they can also be used as raw material including both the textile and pharmaceutical industries, as in the case of “chemical cellulose”. In the same way, these materials could also be used in the future as jet fuel, among other applications.
“Now that we understand which genes determine the specific characteristics in these trees, we can grow trees that grow faster, have higher quality wood , use water more efficiently and affect climate change less. We can even convert well-managed ‘Eucalyptus’ plantations into bio-factories to produce specific types of coveted materials and chemicals, ”explains Zander Myburg to Nature magazine.
