LAHORE: Researchers from the Lahore University of Management Sciences (LUMS) have contributed to international research that identified chemical compounds that could potentially help crops withstand drought.
The study focused on compounds known as NS5806 and UA49, which influence potassium channels involved in regulating the opening and closing of stomata.
Stomata are tiny pores on plant leaves that play an important role in controlling water loss and gas exchange. During drought, plants close these pores to reduce water loss.
Researchers found that the compounds could promote stomatal closure and improve drought tolerance without producing some of the negative effects associated with externally applying the plant hormone abscisic acid (ABA).
The research also revealed new information about the relationship between potassium and calcium signalling in plant cells.
LUMS researchers Dr Khurram Bashir and PhD researcher Farhan Aziz contributed to the international study.
The findings could eventually help scientists develop agricultural approaches for improving crop resilience in regions affected by water shortages and climate change.
However, the research is still at an early stage. Further testing will be required in major agricultural crops and under real field conditions before the compounds can be considered for practical farming use.
