A research team of Magicpen bio, a biotechnology company in the Hefei National High-Tech Industry Development Zone, has successfully created China's first gene-edited, high-brightness, self-illuminating plants. 

The breakthrough, achieved in August last year, involves implanting genes from creatures such as fireflies into plant cells, creating glowing plants reminiscent of the fantastical flora in the movie Avatar. This innovation paves the way for significant progress in biotech lighting research.

According to company staff, the self-illuminating plants are made possible by transferring genes from naturally bioluminescent creatures into plants using genetic engineering techniques. These genes express luciferase, an enzyme that enables the plants to emit light at night.

Li Renhan, founder of Magicpen bio, said that the company's commercial product — glowing sunflowers — has seen a remarkable success. Since their launch, over 10,000 such flowers have been sold within a week, reflecting strong market demand. The technology has already been applied to more than 20 plant species, including petunias, with ongoing research focused on developing glowing ornamental flowers such as roses and lotuses.

The project is part of a broader aspiration for innovation in the Hefei National High-Tech Industry Development Zone. In 2022, the Anhui government launched the Grand Union of Innovation, a platform designed to facilitate commercialization, support startups, drive industry development, and foster innovation. It leverages the global alumni network of institutions like the University of Science and Technology of China to attract talent. The platform aims to support cutting-edge technological and industrial advancements.