Scientists Investigate How Sunny Dandelions Produce Rubber

Dandelions are everywhere; they pop up from the ground, taking over entire suburban lawns. But did you know that dandelions can produce rubber? Scientists are now looking at the plant more closely to see if producing rubber from dandelions may one day be a viable process.

Dandelions produce a milky fluid which contains rubber in special cells. Responsible for the formation of the rubber is a protein complex located on the surface of rubber particles. These globular particles are filled with polyisoprene, which is the main component of rubber, and are surrounded by a protective coating.

The researchers examined the dandelion a bit more closely and found the protein that's necessary for the rubber-producing protein complex. This is especially important if researchers wish to use the dandelion to create rubber in the future.

"Dandelions have become well-known recently in particular as a result of applied research," said Christian Schulze, one of the researchers, in a news release. "Now we are pleased to have some news again from the field of basic research: we have been able to identify no fewer than two key components of rubber biosynthesis."

That's said, it's still not possible to manufacture rubber biotechnologically. However, identifying the key components in rubber synthesis is a major step forward when it comes to making the process possible.

"We achieved these research results only through effective collaboration between IME and Munster University-in other words, through the intelligent linking of applications-oriented and basic research. We hope to expand this successful model further," said Dirk Prufer, one of the researchers.

The findings are published in the journal Nature Plants.

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