Cyanide Seed Defense System (IMAGE)

ETH Zurich

Cyanide Seed Defense System

Caption

Several layers of polylactic acid surround a wheat grain. An enzyme is embedded in the innermost layer, while the middle layers contain amygdalin. Insects can release these two substances as they feed, leading the enzyme to convert the amygdalin into hydrogen cyanide. This can weaken or kill the insect larvae.

Credit

ETH Zurich

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