1
|
Long Y, Wang C, Liu C, Li H, Pu A, Dong Z, Wei X, Wan X. Molecular mechanisms controlling grain size and weight and their biotechnological breeding applications in maize and other cereal crops. J Adv Res 2024; 62:27-46. [PMID: 37739122 PMCID: PMC11331183 DOI: 10.1016/j.jare.2023.09.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2023] [Revised: 09/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cereal crops are a primary energy source for humans. Grain size and weight affect both evolutionary fitness and grain yield of cereals. Although studies on gene mining and molecular mechanisms controlling grain size and weight are constantly emerging in cereal crops, only a few systematic reviews on the underlying molecular mechanisms and their breeding applications are available so far. AIM OF REVIEW This review provides a general state-of-the-art overview of molecular mechanisms and targeted strategies for improving grain size and weight of cereals as well as insights for future yield-improving biotechnology-assisted breeding. KEY SCIENTIFIC CONCEPTS OF REVIEW In this review, the evolution of research on grain size and weight over the last 20 years is traced based on a bibliometric analysis of 1158 publications and the main signaling pathways and transcriptional factors involved are summarized. In addition, the roles of post-transcriptional regulation and photosynthetic product accumulation affecting grain size and weight in maize and rice are outlined. State-of-the-art strategies for discovering novel genes related to grain size and weight in maize and other cereal crops as well as advanced breeding biotechnology strategies being used for improving yield including marker-assisted selection, genomic selection, transgenic breeding, and genome editing are also discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yan Long
- Research Institute of Biology and Agriculture, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China; Industry Research Institute of Biotechnology Breeding, Yili Normal University, Yining 835000, China; Beijing Engineering Laboratory of Main Crop Bio-Tech Breeding, Beijing International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Bio-Tech Breeding, Zhongzhi International Institute of Agricultural Biosciences, Beijing 100192, China
| | - Cheng Wang
- Research Institute of Biology and Agriculture, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China; Beijing Engineering Laboratory of Main Crop Bio-Tech Breeding, Beijing International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Bio-Tech Breeding, Zhongzhi International Institute of Agricultural Biosciences, Beijing 100192, China
| | - Chang Liu
- Research Institute of Biology and Agriculture, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China; Beijing Engineering Laboratory of Main Crop Bio-Tech Breeding, Beijing International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Bio-Tech Breeding, Zhongzhi International Institute of Agricultural Biosciences, Beijing 100192, China
| | - Huangai Li
- Research Institute of Biology and Agriculture, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China; Beijing Engineering Laboratory of Main Crop Bio-Tech Breeding, Beijing International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Bio-Tech Breeding, Zhongzhi International Institute of Agricultural Biosciences, Beijing 100192, China
| | - Aqing Pu
- Research Institute of Biology and Agriculture, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China; Beijing Engineering Laboratory of Main Crop Bio-Tech Breeding, Beijing International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Bio-Tech Breeding, Zhongzhi International Institute of Agricultural Biosciences, Beijing 100192, China
| | - Zhenying Dong
- Research Institute of Biology and Agriculture, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China; Industry Research Institute of Biotechnology Breeding, Yili Normal University, Yining 835000, China; Beijing Engineering Laboratory of Main Crop Bio-Tech Breeding, Beijing International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Bio-Tech Breeding, Zhongzhi International Institute of Agricultural Biosciences, Beijing 100192, China
| | - Xun Wei
- Research Institute of Biology and Agriculture, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China; Industry Research Institute of Biotechnology Breeding, Yili Normal University, Yining 835000, China; Beijing Engineering Laboratory of Main Crop Bio-Tech Breeding, Beijing International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Bio-Tech Breeding, Zhongzhi International Institute of Agricultural Biosciences, Beijing 100192, China
| | - Xiangyuan Wan
- Research Institute of Biology and Agriculture, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China; Industry Research Institute of Biotechnology Breeding, Yili Normal University, Yining 835000, China; Beijing Engineering Laboratory of Main Crop Bio-Tech Breeding, Beijing International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Bio-Tech Breeding, Zhongzhi International Institute of Agricultural Biosciences, Beijing 100192, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Zhou X, Li Y, Wang J, Zhao Y, Wang H, Han Y, Lin X. Genome-wide identification of U-box gene family and expression analysis in response to saline-alkali stress in foxtail millet ( Setaria italica L. Beauv). Front Genet 2024; 15:1356807. [PMID: 38435060 PMCID: PMC10904469 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2024.1356807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
E3 ubiquitin ligases are central modifiers of plant signaling pathways that regulate protein function, localization, degradation, and other biological processes by linking ubiquitin to target proteins. E3 ubiquitin ligases include proteins with the U-box domain. However, there has been no report about the foxtail millet (Setaria italica L. Beauv) U-box gene family (SiPUB) to date. To explore the function of SiPUBs, this study performed genome-wide identification of SiPUBs and expression analysis of them in response to saline-alkali stress. A total of 70 SiPUBs were identified, which were unevenly distributed on eight chromosomes. Phylogenetic and conserved motif analysis demonstrated that SiPUBs could be clustered into six subfamilies (I-VI), and most SiPUBs were closely related to the homologues in rice. Twenty-eight types of cis-acting elements were identified in SiPUBs, most of which contained many light-responsive elements and plant hormone-responsive elements. Foxtail millet had 19, 78, 85, 18, and 89 collinear U-box gene pairs with Arabidopsis, rice, sorghum, tomato, and maize, respectively. Tissue specific expression analysis revealed great variations in SiPUB expression among different tissues, and most SiPUBs were relatively highly expressed in roots, indicating that SiPUBs may play important roles in root development or other growth and development processes of foxtail millet. Furthermore, the responses of 15 SiPUBs to saline-alkali stress were detected by qRT-PCR. The results showed that saline-alkali stress led to significantly differential expression of these 15 SiPUBs, and SiPUB20/48/70 may play important roles in the response mechanism against saline-alkali stress. Overall, this study provides important information for further exploration of the biological function of U-box genes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoke Zhou
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology, College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, Hebei Normal University of Science and Technology, Qinhuangdao, China
| | - Yun Li
- Research Center of Rural Vitalization, Hebei Normal University of Science and Technology, Qinhuangdao, China
| | - Jian Wang
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology, College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, Hebei Normal University of Science and Technology, Qinhuangdao, China
| | - Yuxue Zhao
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology, College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, Hebei Normal University of Science and Technology, Qinhuangdao, China
| | - Huimin Wang
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology, College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, Hebei Normal University of Science and Technology, Qinhuangdao, China
| | - Yucui Han
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology, College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, Hebei Normal University of Science and Technology, Qinhuangdao, China
| | - Xiaohu Lin
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology, College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, Hebei Normal University of Science and Technology, Qinhuangdao, China
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Bi C, Wei C, Li J, Wen S, Zhao H, Yu J, Shi X, Zhang Y, Liu Q, Zhang Y, Li B, You M. A novel variation of TaGW2-6B increases grain weight without penalty in grain protein content in wheat ( Triticum aestivum L.). MOLECULAR BREEDING : NEW STRATEGIES IN PLANT IMPROVEMENT 2024; 44:15. [PMID: 38362529 PMCID: PMC10864231 DOI: 10.1007/s11032-024-01455-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
Yield and quality are two crucial breeding objects of wheat therein grain weight and grain protein content (GPC) are two key relevant factors correspondingly. Investigations of their genetic mechanisms represent special significance for breeding. In this study, 199 F2 plants and corresponding F2:3 families derived from Nongda3753 (ND3753) and its EMS-generated mutant 564 (M564) were used to investigate the genetic basis of larger grain and higher GPC of M564. QTL analysis identified a total of 33 environmentally stable QTLs related to thousand grain weight (TGW), grain area (GA), grain circle (GC), grain length (GL), grain width (GW), and GPC on chromosomes 1B, 2A, 2B, 4D, 6B, and 7D, respectively, among which QGw.cau-6B.1, QTgw.cau-6B.1, QGa.cau-6B.1, and QGc.cau-6B.1 shared overlap confidence interval on chromosome 6B. This interval contained the TaGW2 gene playing the same role as the QTLs, so TaGW2-6B was cloned and sequenced. Sequence alignment revealed two G/A SNPs between two parents, among which the SNP in the seventh exon led to a premature termination in M564. A KASP marker was developed based on the SNP, and single-marker analysis on biparental populations showed that the mutant allele could significantly increase GW and TGW, but had no effect on GPC. Distribution detection of the mutant allele through KASP marker genotyping and sequence alignment against databases ascertained that no materials harbored this allele within natural populations. This allele was subsequently introduced into three different varieties through molecular marker-assisted backcrossing, and it was revealed that the allele had a significant effect on simultaneously increasing GW, TGW, and even GPC in all of three backgrounds. Summing up the above, it could be concluded that a novel elite allele of TaGW2-6B was artificially created and might play an important role in wheat breeding for high yield and quality. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s11032-024-01455-y.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chan Bi
- State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology, Key Laboratory of Crop Heterosis and Utilization, Ministry of Education, Beijing Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193 China
| | - Chaoxiong Wei
- State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology, Key Laboratory of Crop Heterosis and Utilization, Ministry of Education, Beijing Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193 China
| | - Jinghui Li
- Wheat Center, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Henan Provincial Key Laboratory of Hybrid Wheat, Xinxiang, 453003 China
| | - Shaozhe Wen
- Department of Landscape and Garden, Yangzhou Polytechnic College, Yangzhou, 225009 China
| | - Huanhuan Zhao
- State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology, Key Laboratory of Crop Heterosis and Utilization, Ministry of Education, Beijing Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193 China
| | - Jiazheng Yu
- State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology, Key Laboratory of Crop Heterosis and Utilization, Ministry of Education, Beijing Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193 China
| | - Xintian Shi
- State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology, Key Laboratory of Crop Heterosis and Utilization, Ministry of Education, Beijing Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193 China
| | - Yuan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology, Key Laboratory of Crop Heterosis and Utilization, Ministry of Education, Beijing Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193 China
| | - Qiaofeng Liu
- State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology, Key Laboratory of Crop Heterosis and Utilization, Ministry of Education, Beijing Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193 China
| | - Yufeng Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology, Key Laboratory of Crop Heterosis and Utilization, Ministry of Education, Beijing Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193 China
| | - Baoyun Li
- State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology, Key Laboratory of Crop Heterosis and Utilization, Ministry of Education, Beijing Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193 China
| | - Mingshan You
- State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology, Key Laboratory of Crop Heterosis and Utilization, Ministry of Education, Beijing Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193 China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Wang X, Choi YM, Jeon YA, Yi J, Shin MJ, Desta KT, Yoon H. Analysis of Genetic Diversity in Adzuki Beans ( Vigna angularis): Insights into Environmental Adaptation and Early Breeding Strategies for Yield Improvement. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 12:4154. [PMID: 38140482 PMCID: PMC10747723 DOI: 10.3390/plants12244154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2023] [Revised: 12/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
Adzuki beans are widely cultivated in East Asia and are one of the earliest domesticated crops. In order to gain a deeper understanding of the genetic diversity and domestication history of adzuki beans, we conducted Genotyping by Sequencing (GBS) analysis on 366 landraces originating from Korea, China, and Japan, resulting in 6586 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). Population structure analysis divided these 366 landraces into three subpopulations. These three subpopulations exhibited distinctive distributions, suggesting that they underwent extended domestication processes in their respective regions of origin. Phenotypic variance analysis of the three subpopulations indicated that the Korean-domesticated subpopulation exhibited significantly higher 100-seed weights, the Japanese-domesticated subpopulation showed significantly higher numbers of grains per pod, and the Chinese-domesticated subpopulation displayed significantly higher numbers of pods per plant. We speculate that these differences in yield-related traits may be attributed to varying emphases placed by early breeders in these regions on the selection of traits related to yield. A large number of genes related to biotic/abiotic stress resistance and defense were found in most quantitative trait locus (QTL) for yield-related traits using genome-wide association studies (GWAS). Genomic sliding window analysis of Tajima's D and a genetic differentiation coefficient (Fst) revealed distinct domestication selection signatures and genotype variations on these QTLs within each subpopulation. These findings indicate that each subpopulation would have been subjected to varied biotic/abiotic stress events in different origins, of which these stress events have caused balancing selection differences in the QTL of each subpopulation. In these balancing selections, plants tend to select genotypes with strong resistance under biotic/abiotic stress, but reduce the frequency of high-yield genotypes to varying degrees. These biotic/abiotic stressors impact crop yield and may even lead to selection purging, resulting in the loss of several high-yielding genotypes among landraces. However, this also fuels the flow of crop germplasms. Overall, balancing selection appears to have a more significant impact on the three yield-related traits compared to breeder-driven domestication selection. These findings are crucial for understanding the impact of domestication selection history on landraces and yield-related traits, aiding in the improvement of adzuki bean varieties.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Hyemyeong Yoon
- National Agrobiodiversity Center, National Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Rural Development Administration, Jeonju 54874, Republic of Korea; (X.W.); (Y.-M.C.); (Y.-a.J.); (J.Y.); (M.-J.S.)
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Wang K, Shi L, Zheng B, He Y. Responses of wheat kernel weight to diverse allelic combinations under projected climate change conditions. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2023; 14:1138966. [PMID: 36998681 PMCID: PMC10043320 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2023.1138966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In wheat, kernel weight (KW) is a key determinant of grain yield (GY). However, it is often overlooked when improving wheat productivity under climate warming. Moreover, little is known about the complex effects of genetic and climatic factors on KW. Here, we explored the responses of wheat KW to diverse allelic combinations under projected climate warming conditions. METHODS To focus on KW, we selected a subset of 81 out of 209 wheat varieties with similar GY, biomass, and kernel number (KN) and focused on their thousand-kernel weight (TKW). We genotyped them at eight kompetitive allele-specific polymerase chain reaction markers closely associated with TKW. Subsequently, we calibrated and evaluated the process-based model known as Agricultural Production Systems Simulator (APSIM-Wheat) based on a unique dataset including phenotyping, genotyping, climate, soil physicochemistry, and on-farm management information. We then used the calibrated APSIM-Wheat model to estimate TKW under eight allelic combinations (81 wheat varieties), seven sowing dates, and the shared socioeconomic pathways (SSPs) designated SSP2-4.5 and SSP5-8.5, driven by climate projections from five General Circulation Models (GCMs) BCC-CSM2-MR, CanESM5, EC-Earth3-Veg, MIROC-ES2L, and UKESM1-0-LL. RESULTS The APSIM-Wheat model reliably simulated wheat TKW with a root mean square error (RMSE) of < 3.076 g TK-1 and R2 of > 0.575 (P < 0.001). The analysis of variance based on the simulation output showed that allelic combination, climate scenario, and sowing date extremely significantly affected TKW (P < 0.001). The impact of the interaction allelic combination × climate scenario on TKW was also significant (P < 0.05). Meanwhile, the variety parameters and their relative importance in the APSIM-Wheat model accorded with the expression of the allelic combinations. Under the projected climate scenarios, the favorable allelic combinations (TaCKX-D1b + Hap-7A-1 + Hap-T + Hap-6A-G + Hap-6B-1 + H1g + A1b for SSP2-4.5 and SSP5-8.5) mitigated the negative effects of climate change on TKW. DISCUSSION The present study demonstrated that optimizing favorable allelic combinations can help achieve high wheat TKW. The findings of this study clarify the responses of wheat KW to diverse allelic combinations under projected climate change conditions. Additionally, the present study provides theoretical and practical reference for marker-assisted selection of high TKW in wheat breeding.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Keyi Wang
- Institute of Environment and Sustainable Development in Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Liping Shi
- Institute of Environment and Sustainable Development in Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Bangyou Zheng
- Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) Agriculture and Food, Queensland Biosciences Precinct, St. Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Yong He
- Institute of Environment and Sustainable Development in Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Castro-Camba R, Sánchez C, Vidal N, Vielba JM. Plant Development and Crop Yield: The Role of Gibberellins. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 11:2650. [PMID: 36235516 PMCID: PMC9571322 DOI: 10.3390/plants11192650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2022] [Revised: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Gibberellins have been classically related to a few key developmental processes, thus being essential for the accurate unfolding of plant genetic programs. After more than a century of research, over one hundred different gibberellins have been described. There is a continuously increasing interest in gibberellins research because of their relevant role in the so-called "Green Revolution", as well as their current and possible applications in crop improvement. The functions attributed to gibberellins have been traditionally restricted to the regulation of plant stature, seed germination, and flowering. Nonetheless, research in the last years has shown that these functions extend to many other relevant processes. In this review, the current knowledge on gibberellins homeostasis and mode of action is briefly outlined, while specific attention is focused on the many different responses in which gibberellins take part. Thus, those genes and proteins identified as being involved in the regulation of gibberellin responses in model and non-model species are highlighted. The present review aims to provide a comprehensive picture of the state-of-the-art perception of gibberellins molecular biology and its effects on plant development. This picture might be helpful to enhance our current understanding of gibberellins biology and provide the know-how for the development of more accurate research and breeding programs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Jesús Mª Vielba
- Misión Biológica de Galicia, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, 15780 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Fang Y, Du Q, Yang Q, Jiang J, Hou X, Yang Z, Zhao D, Li X, Xie X. Identification, characterization, and expression profiling of the putative U-box E3 ubiquitin ligase gene family in Sorghum bicolor. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:942302. [PMID: 36187972 PMCID: PMC9520534 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.942302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The U-box family is one of the main E3 ubiquitin ligase families in plants. The U-box family has been characterized in several species. However, genome-wide gene identification and expression profiling of the U-box family in response to abiotic stress in Sorghum bicolor remain unclear. In this study, we broadly identified 68 U-box genes in the sorghum genome, including 2 CHIP genes, and 1 typical UFD2 (Ub fusion degradation 2) gene. The U-box gene family was divided into eight subclasses based on homology and conserved domain characteristics. Evolutionary analysis identified 14, 66, and 82 U-box collinear gene pairs in sorghum compared with arabidopsis, rice, and maize, respectively, and a unique tandem repeat pair (SbPUB26/SbPUB27) is present in the sorghum genome. Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analysis showed that U-box proteins were mainly related to ubiquitination and modification, and various stress responses. Comprehensive analysis of promoters, expression profiling, and gene co-regulation networks also revealed that many sorghum U-box genes may be correlated with multiple stress responses. In summary, our results showed that sorghum contains 68 U-box genes, which may be involved in multiple abiotic stress responses. The findings will support future gene functional studies related to ubiquitination in sorghum.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuanpeng Fang
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Agriculture, Guizhou University, Guiyang, China
| | - Qiaoli Du
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Agriculture, Guizhou University, Guiyang, China
| | - Qian Yang
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Agriculture, Guizhou University, Guiyang, China
| | - Junmei Jiang
- State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Guizhou University, Guiyang, China
| | - Xiaolong Hou
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Agriculture, Guizhou University, Guiyang, China
| | - Zaifu Yang
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Agriculture, Guizhou University, Guiyang, China
| | - Degang Zhao
- College of Life Sciences, Ministry of Education, Institute of Agricultural Bioengineering, Key Laboratory of Mountain Plant Resources Protection and Germplasm Innovation, Guizhou University, Guiyang, China
- Guizhou Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guizhou Conservation Technology Application Engineering Research Center, Guizhou Institute of Prataculture, Guizhou Institute of Biotechnology, Guiyang, China
| | - Xiangyang Li
- State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Guizhou University, Guiyang, China
| | - Xin Xie
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Agriculture, Guizhou University, Guiyang, China
- Guizhou Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guizhou Conservation Technology Application Engineering Research Center, Guizhou Institute of Prataculture, Guizhou Institute of Biotechnology, Guiyang, China
- *Correspondence: Xin Xie,
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Lv Q, Li L, Meng Y, Sun H, Chen L, Wang B, Li X. Wheat E3 ubiquitin ligase TaGW2-6A degrades TaAGPS to affect seed size. PLANT SCIENCE : AN INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL PLANT BIOLOGY 2022; 320:111274. [PMID: 35643616 DOI: 10.1016/j.plantsci.2022.111274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Revised: 03/13/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
TaGW2 has been identified as a key determinant of the grain weight in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). In our previous study, we found that the grain size differs in Chinese Spring (CS) and its TaGW2-6A allelic variant (NIL31). In addition, the expression of the key starch biosynthesis enzyme gene TaAGPS differs significantly in the two materials. However, the underlying molecular mechanism associated with the action of TaGW2-6A has not been reported. In the present study, we found that TaGW2-6A-CS interacted with TaAGPS, whereas TaGW2-6A-NIL31 did not interact with it in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, we found that the C-terminal LXLX domain (376-424 aa) of TaGW2-6A recognized TaAGPS. However, the TaGW2-6A allelic variant lacked this key interaction region due to premature translation termination. We also found that TaGW2-6A-CS can ubiquitinate TaAGPS and degrade it via the 26 S proteasome pathway. In addition, our analysis of the activity of ADP-glucose pyrophosphorylase (AGPase) indicated that the AGPase level in the endosperm cells was lower in CS than NIL31. Cytological observations demonstrated that the average number of starch granules and the average area of starch granules in endosperm cells were lower in CS than NIL31. The overexpression of TaAGPS positively regulated the seed size in transgenic Arabidopsis. Our findings provide novel insights into the molecular mechanism that allows TaGW2-6A-TaAGPS to regulate seed size via the starch synthesis pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qian Lv
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology in Arid Areas and College of Agronomy, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Liqun Li
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology in Arid Areas and College of Agronomy, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Ying Meng
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology in Arid Areas and College of Agronomy, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Huimin Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology in Arid Areas and College of Agronomy, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Liuping Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology in Arid Areas and College of Agronomy, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Bingxin Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology in Arid Areas and College of Agronomy, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Xuejun Li
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology in Arid Areas and College of Agronomy, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Fradgley NS, Gardner K, Kerton M, Swarbreck SM, Bentley AR. Trade-offs in the genetic control of functional and nutritional quality traits in UK winter wheat. Heredity (Edinb) 2022; 128:420-433. [PMID: 35393550 PMCID: PMC9178040 DOI: 10.1038/s41437-022-00503-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2021] [Revised: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
A complex network of trade-offs exists between wheat quality and nutritional traits. We investigated the correlated relationships among several milling and baking traits as well as mineral density in refined white and whole grain flour. Our aim was to determine their pleiotropic genetic control in a multi-parent population over two trial years with direct application to practical breeding. Co-location of major quantitative trait loci (QTL) and principal component based multi-trait QTL mapping increased the power to detect QTL and revealed pleiotropic effects explaining many complementary and antagonistic trait relationships. High molecular weight glutenin subunit genes explained much of the heritable variation in important dough rheology traits, although additional QTL were detected. Several QTL, including one linked to the TaGW2 gene, controlled grain size and increased flour extraction rate. The semi-dwarf Rht-D1b allele had a positive effect on Hagberg falling number, but reduced grain size, specific weight, grain protein content and flour water absorption. Mineral nutrient concentrations were lower in Rht-D1b lines for many elements, in wholemeal and white flour, but potassium concentration was higher in Rht-D1b lines. The presence of awns increased calcium content without decreasing extraction rate, despite the negative correlation between these traits. QTL were also found that affect the relative concentrations of key mineral nutrients compared to phosphorus which may help increase bioavailability without associated anti-nutritional effects of phytic acid. Taken together these results demonstrate the potential for marker-based selection to optimise trait trade-offs and enhance wheat nutritional value by considering pleiotropic genetic effects across multiple traits.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nick S Fradgley
- NIAB, 93 Lawrence Weaver Road, Cambridge, CB3 0LE, UK.
- Department of Plant Sciences, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge, CB2 3EA, UK.
| | - Keith Gardner
- NIAB, 93 Lawrence Weaver Road, Cambridge, CB3 0LE, UK
- International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT), El Batán, C.P.56237, Mexico
| | | | | | - Alison R Bentley
- NIAB, 93 Lawrence Weaver Road, Cambridge, CB3 0LE, UK
- International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT), El Batán, C.P.56237, Mexico
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Cheng X, Gao C, Liu X, Xu D, Pan X, Gao W, Yan S, Yao H, Cao J, Min X, Lu J, Chang C, Zhang H, Ma C. Characterization of the wheat VQ protein family and expression of candidate genes associated with seed dormancy and germination. BMC PLANT BIOLOGY 2022; 22:119. [PMID: 35291943 PMCID: PMC8925178 DOI: 10.1186/s12870-022-03430-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2020] [Accepted: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Seed dormancy and germination determine wheat resistance to pre-harvest sprouting and thereby affect grain yield and quality. Arabidopsis VQ genes have been shown to influence seed germination; however, the functions of wheat VQ genes have not been characterized. RESULTS We identified 65 TaVQ genes in common wheat and named them TaVQ1-65. We identified 48 paralogous pairs, 37 of which had Ka/Ks values greater than 1, suggesting that most TaVQ genes have experienced positive selection. Chromosome locations, gene structures, promoter element analysis, and gene ontology annotations of the TaVQs showed that their structures determined their functions and that structural changes reflected functional diversity. Transcriptome-based expression analysis of 62 TaVQ genes and microarray analysis of 11 TaVQ genes indicated that they played important roles in diverse biological processes. We compared TaVQ gene expression and seed germination index values among wheat varieties with contrasting seed dormancy and germination phenotypes and identified 21 TaVQ genes that may be involved in seed dormancy and germination. CONCLUSIONS Sixty-five TaVQ proteins were identified for the first time in common wheat, and bioinformatics analyses were used to investigate their phylogenetic relationships and evolutionary divergence. qRT-PCR data showed that 21 TaVQ candidate genes were potentially involved in seed dormancy and germination. These findings provide useful information for further cloning and functional analysis of TaVQ genes and introduce useful candidate genes for the improvement of PHS resistance in wheat.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xinran Cheng
- College of Agronomy, Key Laboratory of Wheat Biology and Genetic Improvement On Southern Yellow & Huai River Valley, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China
- National Key Laboratory for Crop Genetics and Germplasm Enhancement, Jiangsu Plant Gene Engineering Research Center, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Chang Gao
- College of Agronomy, Key Laboratory of Wheat Biology and Genetic Improvement On Southern Yellow & Huai River Valley, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China
| | - Xue Liu
- College of Agronomy, Key Laboratory of Wheat Biology and Genetic Improvement On Southern Yellow & Huai River Valley, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China
| | - Dongmei Xu
- College of Agronomy, Key Laboratory of Wheat Biology and Genetic Improvement On Southern Yellow & Huai River Valley, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China
| | - Xu Pan
- College of Agronomy, Key Laboratory of Wheat Biology and Genetic Improvement On Southern Yellow & Huai River Valley, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China
| | - Wei Gao
- College of Agronomy, Key Laboratory of Wheat Biology and Genetic Improvement On Southern Yellow & Huai River Valley, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China
| | - Shengnan Yan
- College of Agronomy, Key Laboratory of Wheat Biology and Genetic Improvement On Southern Yellow & Huai River Valley, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China
| | - Hui Yao
- College of Agronomy, Key Laboratory of Wheat Biology and Genetic Improvement On Southern Yellow & Huai River Valley, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China
| | - Jiajia Cao
- College of Agronomy, Key Laboratory of Wheat Biology and Genetic Improvement On Southern Yellow & Huai River Valley, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China
| | - Xiaoyu Min
- College of Agronomy, Key Laboratory of Wheat Biology and Genetic Improvement On Southern Yellow & Huai River Valley, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China
| | - Jie Lu
- College of Agronomy, Key Laboratory of Wheat Biology and Genetic Improvement On Southern Yellow & Huai River Valley, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China
| | - Cheng Chang
- College of Agronomy, Key Laboratory of Wheat Biology and Genetic Improvement On Southern Yellow & Huai River Valley, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China.
| | - Haiping Zhang
- College of Agronomy, Key Laboratory of Wheat Biology and Genetic Improvement On Southern Yellow & Huai River Valley, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China.
| | - Chuanxi Ma
- College of Agronomy, Key Laboratory of Wheat Biology and Genetic Improvement On Southern Yellow & Huai River Valley, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Song H, Wang T, Li L, Xing L, Xie HF, Feng BL, Liu JR. Comparative transcriptome analysis provides insights into grain filling commonalities and differences between foxtail millet [ Setaria italica (L.) P. Beauv.] varieties with different panicle types. PeerJ 2022; 10:e12968. [PMID: 35198264 PMCID: PMC8860066 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.12968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Grain filling affects grain weight and quality and is among the most critical factors in determining the yield and quality of cereal crops. Though hybrids have larger panicles and numerous spikelets with a larger sink capacity than conventional varieties, data on the grain filling commonalities and differences between foxtail millet varieties with different panicle types remain sparse. In this study, we found that "Zhang Gu 13" (ZG, large panicle) exhibits a significantly higher panicle weight than "Yu Gu 18" (YG, conventional panicle) at the early stage of grain filling, but the weight of YG increased rapidly and gradually overtook ZG during the middle stages. A temporal expression pattern analysis demonstrated that the genes involved in photosynthesis, metabolic pathways, and phenylpropanoid biosynthesis were downregulated, while those related to peroxisome function, purine metabolism, and zeatin biosynthesis were upregulated during grain filling in both varieties. A total of 6,832 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified in both varieties, with the majority identified at the early and late stages. A Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis further revealed that the upregulated DEGs in YG were associated with gibberellin (GA) biosynthesis, ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters, and plant hormone signal transduction. Photosynthesis-related DEGs, such as photosystem and antenna proteins, were significantly upregulated in ZG. This study provides preliminary insights into the differences in gene expression and molecular mechanisms of grain filling between ZG and YG in the North China summer-sowing region.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hui Song
- Anyang Academy of Agriculture Sciences, Anyang, Henan, China
| | - Tao Wang
- College of Biology and Food Engineering, Anyang Institute of Technology, Anyang, Henan, China,Innovation and Practice Base for Postdoctors, Anyang Institute of Technology, Anyang, Henan, China
| | - Long Li
- Anyang Academy of Agriculture Sciences, Anyang, Henan, China
| | - Lu Xing
- Anyang Academy of Agriculture Sciences, Anyang, Henan, China
| | - Hui fang Xie
- Anyang Academy of Agriculture Sciences, Anyang, Henan, China
| | - Bai li Feng
- College of Agronomy, Northwest A&F University/State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology for Arid Areas, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Jin rong Liu
- Anyang Academy of Agriculture Sciences, Anyang, Henan, China
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Yang Y, Amo A, Wei D, Chai Y, Zheng J, Qiao P, Cui C, Lu S, Chen L, Hu YG. Large-scale integration of meta-QTL and genome-wide association study discovers the genomic regions and candidate genes for yield and yield-related traits in bread wheat. TAG. THEORETICAL AND APPLIED GENETICS. THEORETISCHE UND ANGEWANDTE GENETIK 2021; 134:3083-3109. [PMID: 34142166 DOI: 10.1007/s00122-021-03881-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Based on the large-scale integration of meta-QTL and Genome-Wide Association Study, 76 high-confidence MQTL regions and 237 candidate genes that affected wheat yield and yield-related traits were discovered. Improving yield and yield-related traits are key goals in wheat breeding program. The integration of accumulated wheat genetic resources provides an opportunity to uncover important genomic regions and candidate genes that affect wheat yield. Here, a comprehensive meta-QTL analysis was conducted on 2230 QTL of yield-related traits obtained from 119 QTL studies. These QTL were refined into 145 meta-QTL (MQTL), and 89 MQTL were verified by GWAS with different natural populations. The average confidence interval (CI) of these MQTL was 2.92 times less than that of the initial QTL. Furthermore, 76 core MQTL regions with a physical distance less than 25 Mb were detected. Based on the homology analysis and expression patterns, 237 candidate genes in the MQTL involved in photoperiod response, grain development, multiple plant growth regulator pathways, carbon and nitrogen metabolism and spike and flower organ development were determined. A novel candidate gene TaKAO-4A was confirmed to be significantly associated with grain size, and a CAPS marker was developed based on its dominant haplotype. In summary, this study clarified a method based on the integration of meta-QTL, GWAS and homology comparison to reveal the genomic regions and candidate genes that affect important yield-related traits in wheat. This work will help to lay a foundation for the identification, transfer and aggregation of these important QTL or candidate genes in wheat high-yield breeding.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yang Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology for Arid Areas, College of Agronomy, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Aduragbemi Amo
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology for Arid Areas, College of Agronomy, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Di Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology for Arid Areas, College of Agronomy, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yongmao Chai
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology for Arid Areas, College of Agronomy, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Jie Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology for Arid Areas, College of Agronomy, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Pengfang Qiao
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology for Arid Areas, College of Agronomy, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Chunge Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology for Arid Areas, College of Agronomy, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Shan Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology for Arid Areas, College of Agronomy, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Liang Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology for Arid Areas, College of Agronomy, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China.
| | - Yin-Gang Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology for Arid Areas, College of Agronomy, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China.
- Institute of Water Saving Agriculture in Arid Regions of China, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Wang J, Zhang M, Dong R, Liu C, Guan H, Liu Q, Liu T, Wang L, Qi S, He C. Heterologous expression of ZmGS5 enhances organ size and seed weight by regulating cell expansion in Arabidopsis thaliana. Gene 2021; 793:145749. [PMID: 34077776 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2021.145749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Revised: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Maize ZmGS5 was reported to be positively associated with kernel-related traits, however, its regulatory mechanism on plant development and seed size remains unknown. In this study, ZmGS5 was demonstrated to be widely expressed in various maize tissues with the highest expression level in developing embryos, indicating its critical roles in early kernel development process. The ZmGS5 protein was subcellularly localized to both the nucleus and cytoplasm. Transgenic Arabidopsis plants overexpressing ZmGS5 under the control of either the constitutive maize Ubiquitin1 promotor or native ZmGS5 promoter resulted in increased plant size, biomass, seed size and weight, although no significant difference was observed between transgenic lines harboring the two constructs. In contrast, the antisense-ZmGS5 transgene resulted in opposite phenotypes. Our cytological data suggested that ZmGS5 enlarged petal size through enhancing cell expansion. Quantitative RT-PCR analysis indicated that ZmGS5 might enhance cell expansion and grain filling by upregulating expression levels of particular EXPA or SWEET genes. Collectively, these findings help us further understand the biological function and regulatory mechanism of ZmGS5 in improving organ size and seed weight, which imply its great potential for high-yield breeding in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juan Wang
- Maize Research Institute, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences/National Engineering Laboratory of Wheat and Maize/Key Laboratory of Biology and Genetic Improvement of Maize in Northern Yellow-huai River Plain, Ministry of Agriculture, Jinan 250100, China
| | - Maolin Zhang
- Maize Research Institute, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences/National Engineering Laboratory of Wheat and Maize/Key Laboratory of Biology and Genetic Improvement of Maize in Northern Yellow-huai River Plain, Ministry of Agriculture, Jinan 250100, China
| | - Rui Dong
- Maize Research Institute, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences/National Engineering Laboratory of Wheat and Maize/Key Laboratory of Biology and Genetic Improvement of Maize in Northern Yellow-huai River Plain, Ministry of Agriculture, Jinan 250100, China
| | - Chunxiao Liu
- Maize Research Institute, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences/National Engineering Laboratory of Wheat and Maize/Key Laboratory of Biology and Genetic Improvement of Maize in Northern Yellow-huai River Plain, Ministry of Agriculture, Jinan 250100, China
| | - Haiying Guan
- Maize Research Institute, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences/National Engineering Laboratory of Wheat and Maize/Key Laboratory of Biology and Genetic Improvement of Maize in Northern Yellow-huai River Plain, Ministry of Agriculture, Jinan 250100, China
| | - Qiang Liu
- Maize Research Institute, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences/National Engineering Laboratory of Wheat and Maize/Key Laboratory of Biology and Genetic Improvement of Maize in Northern Yellow-huai River Plain, Ministry of Agriculture, Jinan 250100, China
| | - Tieshan Liu
- Maize Research Institute, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences/National Engineering Laboratory of Wheat and Maize/Key Laboratory of Biology and Genetic Improvement of Maize in Northern Yellow-huai River Plain, Ministry of Agriculture, Jinan 250100, China
| | - Liming Wang
- Maize Research Institute, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences/National Engineering Laboratory of Wheat and Maize/Key Laboratory of Biology and Genetic Improvement of Maize in Northern Yellow-huai River Plain, Ministry of Agriculture, Jinan 250100, China
| | - Shijun Qi
- Maize Research Institute, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences/National Engineering Laboratory of Wheat and Maize/Key Laboratory of Biology and Genetic Improvement of Maize in Northern Yellow-huai River Plain, Ministry of Agriculture, Jinan 250100, China.
| | - Chunmei He
- Maize Research Institute, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences/National Engineering Laboratory of Wheat and Maize/Key Laboratory of Biology and Genetic Improvement of Maize in Northern Yellow-huai River Plain, Ministry of Agriculture, Jinan 250100, China.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Pretini N, Alonso MP, Vanzetti LS, Pontaroli AC, González FG. The physiology and genetics behind fruiting efficiency: a promising spike trait to improve wheat yield potential. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL BOTANY 2021; 72:3987-4004. [PMID: 33681978 DOI: 10.1093/jxb/erab080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Fruiting efficiency (FE, grains per g of spike dry weight at anthesis) was proposed as a promising spike trait to improve wheat yield potential, based on its functional relationship with grain number determination and the evidence of trait variability in elite germplasm. During the last few years, we have witnessed great advances in the understanding of the physiological and genetic basis of this trait. The present review summarizes the recent heritability estimations and the genetic gains obtained when fruiting efficiency was measured at maturity (FEm, grains per g of chaff) and used as selection criterion. In addition, we propose spike ideotypes for contrasting fruiting efficiencies based on the fertile floret efficiency (FFE, fertile florets per g of spike dry weight at anthesis) and grain set (grains per fertile floret), together with other spike fertility-related traits. We also review novel genes and quantitative trait loci available for using marker-assisted selection for fruiting efficiency and other spike fertility traits. The possible trade-off between FE and grain weight and the genes reported to alter this relation are also considered. Finally, we discuss the benefits and future steps towards the use of fruiting efficiency as a selection criterion in breeding programs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Pretini
- Centro de Investigaciones y Transferencia del Noroeste de la Provincia de Buenos Aires (CITNOBA, CONICET-UNNOBA-UNSADA), Monteagudo 2772 CP 2700, Pergamino, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María P Alonso
- Unidad Integrada Balcarce [Facultad de Ciencias Agrarias, Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata -Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Agropecuaria (INTA), EEA INTA Balcarce], Ruta 226 km 73.5 CP 7620, Balcarce, Argentina
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Godoy Cruz 2290 CP C1425FQB, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Leonardo S Vanzetti
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Godoy Cruz 2290 CP C1425FQB, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Agropecuaria (INTA). EEA INTA Marcos Juárez, Ruta 12 s/n CP 2850, Marcos Juárez, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Ana C Pontaroli
- Unidad Integrada Balcarce [Facultad de Ciencias Agrarias, Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata -Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Agropecuaria (INTA), EEA INTA Balcarce], Ruta 226 km 73.5 CP 7620, Balcarce, Argentina
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Godoy Cruz 2290 CP C1425FQB, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Fernanda G González
- Centro de Investigaciones y Transferencia del Noroeste de la Provincia de Buenos Aires (CITNOBA, CONICET-UNNOBA-UNSADA), Monteagudo 2772 CP 2700, Pergamino, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Agropecuaria (INTA). EEA INTA Pergamino, Ruta 32, km 4,5 CP 2700, Pergamino, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Li Z, Liu D, Xia Y, Li Z, Jing D, Du J, Niu N, Ma S, Wang J, Song Y, Yang Z, Zhang G. Identification of the WUSCHEL-Related Homeobox (WOX) Gene Family, and Interaction and Functional Analysis of TaWOX9 and TaWUS in Wheat. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21051581. [PMID: 32111029 PMCID: PMC7084607 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21051581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2020] [Revised: 02/23/2020] [Accepted: 02/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The WUSCHEL-related homeobox (WOX) is a family of plant-specific transcription factors, with important functions, such as regulating the dynamic balance of division and differentiation of plant stem cells and plant organ development. We identified 14 distinct TaWOX genes in the wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) genome, based on a genome-wide scan approach. All of the genes under evaluation had positional homoeologs on subgenomes A, B and D except TaWUS and TaWOX14. Both TaWOX14a and TaWOX14d had a paralogous copy on the same genome due to tandem duplication events. A phylogenetic analysis revealed that TaWOX genes could be divided into three groups. We performed functional characterization of TaWOX genes based on the evolutionary relationships among the WOX gene families of wheat, rice (Oryza sativa L.), and Arabidopsis. An overexpression analysis of TaWUS in Arabidopsis revealed that it affected the development of outer floral whorl organs. The overexpression analysis of TaWOX9 in Arabidopsis revealed that it promoted the root development. In addition, we identified some interaction between the TaWUS and TaWOX9 proteins by screening wheat cDNA expression libraries, which informed directions for further research to determine the functions of TaWUS and TaWOX9. This study represents the first comprehensive data on members of the WOX gene family in wheat.
Collapse
|
16
|
Cheng X, Wang S, Xu D, Liu X, Li X, Xiao W, Cao J, Jiang H, Min X, Wang J, Zhang H, Chang C, Lu J, Ma C. Identification and Analysis of the GASR Gene Family in Common Wheat ( Triticum aestivum L.) and Characterization of TaGASR34, a Gene Associated With Seed Dormancy and Germination. Front Genet 2019; 10:980. [PMID: 31681420 PMCID: PMC6813915 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2019.00980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2019] [Accepted: 09/13/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Seed dormancy and germination are important agronomic traits in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) because they determine pre-harvest sprouting (PHS) resistance and thus affect grain production. These processes are regulated by Gibberellic Acid-Stimulated Regulator (GASR) genes. In this study, we identified 37 GASR genes in common wheat, which were designated TaGASR1-37. Moreover, we identified 40 pairs of paralogous genes, of which only one had a Ka/Ks value greater than 1, indicating that most TaGASR genes have undergone negative selection. Chromosomal location and duplication analysis revealed 25 pairs of segmentally duplicated genes and seven pairs of tandemly duplicated genes, suggesting that large-scale duplication events may have contributed to the expansion of TaGASR gene family. Microarray analysis of the expression of 18 TaGASR genes indicated that these genes play diverse roles in different biological processes. Using wheat varieties with contrasting seed dormancy phenotypes, we investigated the expression patterns of TaGASR genes and the corresponding seed germination index phenotypes in response to water imbibition, exogenous ABA and GA treatment, and low- and high-temperature treatment. Based on these data, we identified the TaGASR34 gene as potentially associated with seed dormancy and germination. Further, we used a SNP mutation of the TaGASR34 promoter (-16) to develop the CAPS marker GS34-7B, which was then used to validate the association of TaGASR34 with seed dormancy and germination by evaluating two natural populations across environments. Notably, the frequency of the high-dormancy GS34-7Bb allele was significantly lower than that of the low-dormancy GS34-7Ba allele, implying that the favorable GS34-7Bb allele has not previously been used in wheat breeding. These results provide valuable information for further functional analysis of TaGASR genes and present a useful gene and marker combination for future improvement of PHS resistance in wheat.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xinran Cheng
- College of Agronomy, Anhui Agricultural University, Key Laboratory of Wheat Biology and Genetic Improvement on Southern Yellow & Huai River Valley, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Hefei, China
| | - Shengxing Wang
- College of Agronomy, Anhui Agricultural University, Key Laboratory of Wheat Biology and Genetic Improvement on Southern Yellow & Huai River Valley, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Hefei, China
| | - Dongmei Xu
- College of Agronomy, Anhui Agricultural University, Key Laboratory of Wheat Biology and Genetic Improvement on Southern Yellow & Huai River Valley, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Hefei, China
| | - Xue Liu
- College of Agronomy, Anhui Agricultural University, Key Laboratory of Wheat Biology and Genetic Improvement on Southern Yellow & Huai River Valley, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Hefei, China
| | - Xinyu Li
- College of Agronomy, Anhui Agricultural University, Key Laboratory of Wheat Biology and Genetic Improvement on Southern Yellow & Huai River Valley, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Hefei, China
| | - Weiwei Xiao
- College of Agronomy, Anhui Agricultural University, Key Laboratory of Wheat Biology and Genetic Improvement on Southern Yellow & Huai River Valley, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Hefei, China
| | - Jiajia Cao
- College of Agronomy, Anhui Agricultural University, Key Laboratory of Wheat Biology and Genetic Improvement on Southern Yellow & Huai River Valley, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Hefei, China
| | - Hao Jiang
- College of Agronomy, Anhui Agricultural University, Key Laboratory of Wheat Biology and Genetic Improvement on Southern Yellow & Huai River Valley, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Hefei, China
| | - Xiaoyu Min
- College of Agronomy, Anhui Agricultural University, Key Laboratory of Wheat Biology and Genetic Improvement on Southern Yellow & Huai River Valley, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Hefei, China
| | - Jianfeng Wang
- College of Agronomy, Anhui Agricultural University, Key Laboratory of Wheat Biology and Genetic Improvement on Southern Yellow & Huai River Valley, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Hefei, China
| | - Haiping Zhang
- College of Agronomy, Anhui Agricultural University, Key Laboratory of Wheat Biology and Genetic Improvement on Southern Yellow & Huai River Valley, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Hefei, China
| | - Cheng Chang
- College of Agronomy, Anhui Agricultural University, Key Laboratory of Wheat Biology and Genetic Improvement on Southern Yellow & Huai River Valley, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Hefei, China
| | - Jie Lu
- College of Agronomy, Anhui Agricultural University, Key Laboratory of Wheat Biology and Genetic Improvement on Southern Yellow & Huai River Valley, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Hefei, China
| | - Chuanxi Ma
- College of Agronomy, Anhui Agricultural University, Key Laboratory of Wheat Biology and Genetic Improvement on Southern Yellow & Huai River Valley, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Hefei, China
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Genetic Modification for Wheat Improvement: From Transgenesis to Genome Editing. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2019; 2019:6216304. [PMID: 30956982 PMCID: PMC6431451 DOI: 10.1155/2019/6216304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2018] [Revised: 02/08/2019] [Accepted: 02/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
To feed the growing human population, global wheat yields should increase to approximately 5 tonnes per ha from the current 3.3 tonnes by 2050. To reach this goal, existing breeding practices must be complemented with new techniques built upon recent gains from wheat genome sequencing, and the accumulated knowledge of genetic determinants underlying the agricultural traits responsible for crop yield and quality. In this review we primarily focus on the tools and techniques available for accessing gene functions which lead to clear phenotypes in wheat. We provide a view of the development of wheat transformation techniques from a historical perspective, and summarize how techniques have been adapted to obtain gain-of-function phenotypes by gene overexpression, loss-of-function phenotypes by expressing antisense RNAs (RNA interference or RNAi), and most recently the manipulation of gene structure and expression using site-specific nucleases, such as CRISPR/Cas9, for genome editing. The review summarizes recent successes in the application of wheat genetic manipulation to increase yield, improve nutritional and health-promoting qualities in wheat, and enhance the crop's resistance to various biotic and abiotic stresses.
Collapse
|
18
|
Sestili F, Pagliarello R, Zega A, Saletti R, Pucci A, Botticella E, Masci S, Tundo S, Moscetti I, Foti S, Lafiandra D. Enhancing grain size in durum wheat using RNAi to knockdown GW2 genes. TAG. THEORETICAL AND APPLIED GENETICS. THEORETISCHE UND ANGEWANDTE GENETIK 2019; 132:419-429. [PMID: 30426174 DOI: 10.1007/s00122-018-3229-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2018] [Accepted: 11/02/2018] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Knocking down GW2 enhances grain size by regulating genes encoding the synthesis of cytokinin, gibberellin, starch and cell wall. Raising crop yield is a priority task in the light of the continuing growth of the world's population and the inexorable loss of arable land to urbanization. Here, the RNAi approach was taken to reduce the abundance of Grain Weight 2 (GW2) transcript in the durum wheat cultivar Svevo. The effect of the knockdown was to increase the grains' starch content by 10-40%, their width by 4-13% and their surface area by 3-5%. Transcriptomic profiling, based on a quantitative real-time PCR platform, revealed that the transcript abundance of genes encoding both cytokinin dehydrogenase 1 and the large subunit of ADP-glucose pyrophosphorylase was markedly increased in the transgenic lines, whereas that of the genes encoding cytokinin dehydrogenase 2 and gibberellin 3-oxidase was reduced. A proteomic analysis of the non-storage fraction extracted from mature grains detected that eleven proteins were differentially represented in the transgenic compared to wild-type grain: some of these were involved, or at least potentially involved, in cell wall development, suggesting a role of GW2 in the regulation of cell division in the wheat grain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Sestili
- Department of Agriculture and Forest Sciences, University of Tuscia, Via S. Camillo de Lellis, 01100, Viterbo, Italy
| | - Riccardo Pagliarello
- Department of Agriculture and Forest Sciences, University of Tuscia, Via S. Camillo de Lellis, 01100, Viterbo, Italy
| | - Alessandra Zega
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, 95125, Catania, Italy
| | - Rosaria Saletti
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, 95125, Catania, Italy
| | - Anna Pucci
- Department of Agriculture and Forest Sciences, University of Tuscia, Via S. Camillo de Lellis, 01100, Viterbo, Italy
| | - Ermelinda Botticella
- Department of Agriculture and Forest Sciences, University of Tuscia, Via S. Camillo de Lellis, 01100, Viterbo, Italy
| | - Stefania Masci
- Department of Agriculture and Forest Sciences, University of Tuscia, Via S. Camillo de Lellis, 01100, Viterbo, Italy
| | - Silvio Tundo
- Department of Agriculture and Forest Sciences, University of Tuscia, Via S. Camillo de Lellis, 01100, Viterbo, Italy
| | - Ilaria Moscetti
- Department of Agriculture and Forest Sciences, University of Tuscia, Via S. Camillo de Lellis, 01100, Viterbo, Italy
| | - Salvatore Foti
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, 95125, Catania, Italy
| | - Domenico Lafiandra
- Department of Agriculture and Forest Sciences, University of Tuscia, Via S. Camillo de Lellis, 01100, Viterbo, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Savadi S. Molecular regulation of seed development and strategies for engineering seed size in crop plants. PLANT GROWTH REGULATION 2018; 84:401-422. [PMID: 0 DOI: 10.1007/s10725-017-0355-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
|