Chinese biotechnology company Magicpen Bio has engineered more than 20 plant species, including orchids, sunflowers, and chrysanthemums, to glow in the dark. The plants emit light visible to the naked eye without requiring external electricity or ultraviolet light recharging.
Scientists have long studied organisms capable of producing their own light, such as fireflies and bioluminescent fungi. Researchers aim to use these natural mechanisms to create light-producing living things that operate without electrical power.
In future cities, self-illuminating plants could replace traditional street lamps in parks and along pedestrian walkways.
Genetic Modification of Multiple Plant Species
Magicpen Bio modified the genetic structure of different plant species to give them the light-producing mechanism known as bioluminescence. Previous research teams have explored ways to make plants bioluminescent, moving the technology from laboratory environments toward commercial products.
The biological process relies on genetic sequences transferred from both fireflies and fungi into plant genomes. In fireflies, light is produced when a molecule called luciferin interacts with an enzyme called luciferase, releasing energy as visible light.
Biological Mechanisms and Energy Independence
Transferring a single gene is not enough to make a plant produce light. Magicpen Bio researchers identified the specific genetic sequences involved in bioluminescence and adapted them to work with the plants' cellular processes.
Fungi produce light through a different set of enzymatic reactions, which researchers also integrated into the plants. This allows the plants to produce all required molecules and enzymes internally, eliminating the need for an external energy source.
Unlike earlier experimental glowing plants, these modified species do not require recharging under ultraviolet light. The bioluminescence system functions continuously as long as the plant remains alive and receives necessary water and nutrients.
Public Demonstration in Beijing and Future Uses
Magicpen Bio recently presented the experimental plants to the public at the Zhongguancun Forum in Beijing. Displays included specimens of chrysanthemums and orchids that glowed noticeably in the dark.
The company aims to expand the technology beyond decorative potted plants into cultural tourism and the night economy. Proposed applications include replacing light poles in parks or covering an entire large valley with bioluminescent vegetation.
Dr. Li Renhan said this approach could reduce energy consumption compared with traditional lighting. He noted that because the plants require only water and fertilizer rather than electricity, they offer an alternative for parks, walking paths, and tourist areas.
