You go home after a long day of work. The smoke of traffic and the gray clouds hanging over the city are now far behind. Finally, you will be able to breathe freely again. Or, at least, the common assumption that the air in our homes is less polluted than outdoors. recently, smartphone zombie syndromethere is also another thing that affects the air in our homes. toxic home syndromeIn fact, statistics show that the amount of some pollutants is two to five times higher in homes than outdoors. This situation has many causes. These include building materials and insulation containing compounds, gas and fuel combustion, and tick infestation. Allergies, asthma and even lung disease are some of the consequences. of course, air filter Already available, researchers at the University of Washington found Innovative solution It gives your home a green touch in addition to being more efficient: genetically modified plants that purify the air in your home.
One of the major problems with current air filters is their inability to remove harmful particulates such as: chloroform Also benzene, present respectively in chlorinated water and fuel used in heating systems. To combat these harmful compounds, the research team used a common houseplant, pothos ivy (epipremnum aureum).This guy’s strategy Innovation The goal was to introduce genetic modifications so that the test plants expressed the 2E1 protein to convert these contaminants into nutrients and growth-beneficial compounds. This protein is present in all mammals and its main job is to break down alcohol for metabolism.
green liver
The 2E1 protein converts benzene to phenol and chloroform to carbon dioxide and chloride ions. Therefore, scientists call these plants “green liver”.of technology research The process took two years to complete, but the results are certainly encouraging. There was an 82% reduction in chloroform in 3 days, almost undetectable by day 6, and a 75% reduction in benzene after 8 days. One of the keys to optimizing the process is the presence of air currents that carry pollutants to the plants.The next goal of this technology project Adding proteins that can remove formaldehyde, another common contaminant.
Of course, plants do not require external power. clean the airso the technique is as environmentally friendly as possible.
sauce: University of Washington
