Chinese scientists are using genetic technology and synthetic biology techniques to create genetically engineered blue roses.

The artificial blue roses are sold in Xiangyang City, Hubei Province. [File Photo: IC]

Blue roses do not exist in nature and cannot be bred, as roses lack the specific gene that has the ability to produce a blue color. Most blue roses in the market are created by dyeing white roses.

Scientists from Tianjin University and the Institute of Microbiology under the Chinese Academy of Sciences have been using synthetic biology techniques to engineer a bacteria that can create pigment-producing genes. They then inject the engineered bacteria into a white rose petal to generate blue flowers.

This research proves that there is a possibility of using blue pigmentation produced by bacteria to make blue roses. The team of scientists said they will also work together with gardening experts to promote the breeding of blue roses.

The research was published in the journal ACS Synthetic Biology.