Someday we may fill the tank with fungi fuel!

Gary Strobel, a plant pathologist from Montana State University, has spent 50 years exploring the world to discover fungi with significant medical and industrial applications. His work includes finding fungi that produce Taxol, a billion-dollar anti-cancer drug, and new antibiotics. Supported by the National Science Foundation, Strobel's research also focuses on endophytes, microorganisms within plants that can produce diesel-like fuels. By simulating ancient forest conditions in a paleo-biosphere, Strobel and his team can produce hydrocarbons in weeks. The long-term goal is to use microbes to convert agricultural waste into economically viable hydrocarbons, with potential applications in fuel, medicine, plastics, and green chemicals.

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