Algae grow fast. Could we learn their secrets and speed up the growth of crops? Researchers led by Martin Jonikas, an assistant professor of molecular biology, are studying a component of algae called the pyrenoid (pictured) that concentrates carbon dioxide for photosynthesis. The blue ball-like structures are enzymes that help convert carbon into sugars for plant growth. The yellow tubules inside the green tubes are thought to bring carbon and other materials into the pyrenoid. COVER IMAGE COURTESY OF BENJAMIN ENGEL, MAX PLANCK INSTITUTE OF BIOCHEMISTRY