Let's connect nature with hypothesis-based experimentation and explore life in context

Area of Science:

• Molecular Biology
• Genetics
• Ecology

Background:

• Traditional molecular biology experiments often lack real-world ecological context.
• Diversifying sampling locations offers benefits but may not fully address experimental limitations.
• The CRISPR revolution has democratized advanced genetic engineering techniques.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose and demonstrate an approach for conducting hypothesis-based experiments directly in natural environments.
• To integrate advanced molecular techniques with field-based research for enhanced biological insights.
• To overcome the limitations of controlled laboratory settings by bringing experimentation to nature.

Main Methods:

• Development of a mobile laboratory equipped for field experimentation.
• Utilizing CRISPR technology for genome editing in model organisms.
• Conducting experiments on genome-edited metabolic mutants of wild tree tobacco (Nicotiana glauca) in natural habitats.

Main Results:

• Successfully obtained targeted answers to specific research questions under natural conditions.
• Discovered unexpected results that were contingent upon the natural experimental setting.
• Demonstrated the feasibility of conducting controlled, hypothesis-driven research in situ.

Conclusions:

• Bringing advanced experimentation to nature provides crucial context and yields unique insights.
• Mobile laboratories and genome editing tools facilitate in-situ hypothesis testing.
• This integrated approach advances molecular biology by bridging the gap between lab and field.