Bomb Detecting Plants?

Move over bomb sniffing dogs, now we've got plants to do the job.

Researchers at Colorado State University are bio-engineering a new species of plant specifically designed to detect bombs and odorless fumes. The hope is that we can use this new science to aid in the fight against terrorism and for more domestic use (i.e. airport security, private home gas leak detection, and etc.).

Their theory is based on the idea that they can manipulate a plants natural defense mechanism through its DNA to create a desired effect. When a plant senses danger it naturally reacts by releasing chemicals specifically designed to ward off bugs or whatever else might be threatening it. Researchers believe all they have to do is tweak the DNA responsible for controlling the chemicals. The plant's new reaction is to visibly change color. And already results are promising.

Reportedly leaves turn from green to white when in contact with certain specific substances. Only, at this stage the change takes time to occur and at its present speed would not be very helpful in identifying any immediate danger. But researchers are confident that with each new generation of plant they come closer and closer to reaching their goal.