A silicon transporter in rice

Silicon, the second most abundant element in the Earth's crust and soil, is beneficial to plant growth and helps them overcome various forms of stress. It is particularly important for high and sustainable production of rice. A rice gene (Lsi1) responsible for controlling silicon accumulation has now been identified. The gene is permanently expressed in the roots, and suppression of its activity reduces silicon uptake. This is the first report of a silicon transporter in higher plants, and as some plants are unable to accumulate silicon in sufficient amounts, it could provide strategies for producing stress-resistant crops.