Researchers have achieved a first by creating a high-resolution 3D visualization of the RNA polymerase PEP, key to chloroplast replication.

This breakthrough offers new insights into how plants interpret genetic instructions for photosynthesis-related proteins.

The PEP complex is crucial for gene activation in photosynthesis; without it, plants fail to green and cannot photosynthesize.

Using cryo-electron microscopy on white mustard, scientists detailed the 19-part PEP complex, highlighting unique chloroplast interactions.

The PEP structure's uniformity across all land plants suggests a conserved evolutionary mechanism, enlightening our understanding of photosynthesis.

The findings open avenues for future biotechnological advancements in photosynthesis and are supported by the German Research Foundation and the European Research Council.