How Pyrabactin Works (IMAGE)
Caption
Each plant receptor is equipped with a pocket, akin to a padlock, in which a chemical, like pyrabactin (a synthetic chemical that helps plants cope with drought conditions), can dock into, operating like a key. Each receptor is equipped also with a lid that operates like a gate. For the receptor to be activated, the lid must remain closed. In a receptor where the gate closes, pyrabactin fits in snugly to allow the gate to close. In a receptor not activated by pyrabactin, the chemical binds in a way that prevents the gate from closing and activating the receptor.
Credit
Cutler lab, UC Riverside.
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