Researchers at the University of Washington in the US have genetically modified a common houseplant pothos ivy to remove chloroform and benzene, from the air around it, exposure to both of which have been linked to cancer
Scientists have genetically modified a common houseplant to remove cancer-causing pollutants from our homes.
While a variety of air filters in our homes can keep allergens and dust particles at bay, some hazardous compounds are too small to be trapped in these filters.
Small molecules like chloroform, which is present in small amounts in chlorinated water, or benzene, which is a component of gasoline, build up in our homes when we shower or boil water, or when we store cars or lawn mowers in attached garages.
Both benzene and chloroform exposure have been linked to cancer.