Plant Immunity - GoKawiil

Study reveals how salicylic acid switches on plant immune genes via NPR1-Mediator complex

Researchers used structural biology techniques, including crystallography and molecular cloning of Arabidopsis proteins such as NPR1, NPR3, NPR4, MED15 subunits and TGA3, to map how the hormone salicylic acid triggers plant defense gene transcription. The work details the physical interactions between the NPR1 receptor and Mediator complex components that turn on immune responses in plants.

nature.com · 2026-09-16

Private philanthropy fills funding gaps for Brazilian science research

Brazilian philanthropic organizations, led by the Serrapilheira Institute, have begun funding scientific research at a scale unprecedented in the country's history, distributing over $25 million to early-career researchers since its founding. The University of São Paulo has also launched a center dedicated to studying and promoting science philanthropy, reflecting a broader shift as private donors step into a space traditionally dominated by government funding.

nature.com · 2026-09-14