Revolutionary Gene-Editing Technology Used to Control Plant Height in Corn

Chinese scientists have made a groundbreaking achievement in the field of gene editing, successfully reducing the height of corn plants using advanced technology. This breakthrough has far-reaching implications for global food security and agricultural productivity.

The researchers, from the Biotechnology Research Institute of the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), along with their partners Anhui Agricultural University and South China Agricultural University, applied targeted gene editing to modify the Br2 gene in corn.

By designating a knockout vector for Br2, they identified seven transgenic lines with distinct genetic mutations in inbred corn varieties. The results were astounding, as all 28 hybrid offspring resulting from crosses with elite inbred lines exhibited dwarf characteristics.

The scientists then used a haploid inducer-mediated genome editing system to rapidly transform edited haploid plants into stable double-haploid lines within two generations. Trials with three elite inbred lines showed significant reductions in plant height.

"This method enables precise and efficient modification of plant height across diverse genetic backgrounds," said Wang Baobao, a researcher at CAAS.

The breakthrough is a game-changer for developing compact, high-density corn varieties that are both resilient and resistant to lodging. This technology is poised to significantly boost agricultural productivity and contribute to advancements in food security.

As the world's most widely cultivated cereal crop, corn is essential for global food security. The development of such varied and resilient varieties using this revolutionary gene-editing technology promises to revolutionize the future of agriculture.