Barley’s Secret Weapon Against Acidic Soils Uncovered

Written on 10/02/2025
Seed World Staff

A new study reveals the structure of HvAACT1, a barley root protein that protects plants from toxic aluminum in acidic soils. By pumping citrate into the soil, the protein neutralizes aluminum, allowing barley to thrive where most crops struggle. This discovery could guide breeding and biotech strategies to improve crop resilience and global food security.

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