LEXINGTON, Ky. (Feb. 17, 2024) — A groundbreaking study led by a team of researchers at the University of Kentucky’s Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment has revealed a surprising biochemical connection between plant immune responses and human neurological health.

Researchers have discovered that the metabolic pathways regulating vitamin B6 homeostasis — critical in certain forms of epilepsy and immune function — are shared by plants and humans.

Every innovation starts with an idea. To highlight people with world-changing ideas at the University of Kentucky, Research Communications produced “I am a UK Innovator,” a four-video series featuring faculty innovators who have partnered with UK’s Office of Technology Commercialization (OTC).

In modern medicine, researchers are always searching for the next cure, knowing that a panacea for all ills may never be possible. While this type of preventative measure is not yet a reality for humans, it may soon become one for plants.