In the first study of its kind, Rice University scientists
have used synthetic biology to study how a popular soil amendment called
“biochar” can interfere with the chemical signals that some microbes use to
communicate. The class of compounds studied includes those used by some plant
pathogens to coordinate their attacks.
Biochar is charcoal that is produced — typically from waste
wood, manure or leaves — for use as a soil additive. Studies have found biochar
can improve both the nutrient- and water-holding properties of soil, but its
popularity in recent years also owes to its ability to reduce greenhouse gases
by storing carbon in soil, in some cases for many centuries.