المملكة: A researcher re-engineers crops…a “defense system” that closes the doors to disease and defies heat
Dr. Fatima Abdul-Hakim, a researcher in botany at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, revealed “KAUST“, announced its achievement of advanced research results in the field of plant immunity, which is considered a strategic pillar for promoting National Food Security, stressing that developing agricultural crops that are self-immune against diseases and environmental stresses represents the ideal solution to reduce dependence on chemical pesticides and confront the challenges of accelerating climate change, as a culmination of her career that was crowned with the “L’Oréal-UNESCO” Prize for Women in Science.
She stressed that the new scientific discovery revolves around identifying a precise protein that acts as a “molecular key” inside the plant, as it undertakes dual and vital tasks to ensure the survival of crops in conditions
Preventing bacterial infiltration
She explained that this protein, upon sensing danger, closes plant stomata to prevent the infiltration of disease-causing bacteria, which constitutes an effective first line of defense that protects crops from devastating agricultural epidemics.
This discovery also works in parallel with other proteins to form what are known as “stress granules” that temporarily reduce unnecessary vital processes when temperatures rise, giving the plant a superior ability to adapt to severe heat stress.
She emphasized that employing modern biotechnologies, including genetic modification based on these results, will contribute directly to the production of new agricultural varieties capable of withstanding the drought and high temperatures prevailing in the region.
She pointed out that these research applications are not limited to the theoretical aspect, but rather extend to supporting the sustainability of agriculture by reducing the depletion of water and financial resources used in traditional pest control.
She noted that winning the “L’Oréal-UNESCO” award represents a message of global confidence in the ability of Saudi minds to lead the scientific scene, describing the honor as a double responsibility for transferring knowledge and building a stimulating research environment for future generations.
Investment in learning
The doctor recalled Fatima’s scientific beginnings began with representing the Kingdom at the International Exhibition “ICEF” at the age of fifteen, considering that stage the turning point that established in her the belief that early passion is the fuel for great national achievements.
She pointed out that her specialization in environmental sciences and engineering gave her a comprehensive perspective linking biology and engineering, which enabled her to overcome the challenges of scientific research that require long time courses and great patience to reach accurate results.
She sent a message to Saudi girls. In the fields of science and technology, she called on them to invest in continuous learning and not wait for external encouragement, considering self-confidence is the first step towards excellence.
She concluded her speech by emphasizing that supporting scientific research is no longer a luxury but an urgent national necessity, noting that empowering scientists is the shortest path to achieving the goals of Vision 2030 in reaching safe and sustainable agricultural self-sufficiency.
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