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Awan MJA, Amin I, Hensel G, Mansoor S. Clonal gamete-mediated polyploid genome design for stacking genomes. TRENDS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2024:S1360-1385(24)00202-4. [PMID: 39097426 DOI: 10.1016/j.tplants.2024.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2024] [Revised: 07/19/2024] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/05/2024]
Abstract
Hybrid vigor in plants confers better agronomically significant traits in offspring compared with either parent. Recently, Wang et al. reported a mitosis instead of meiosis (MiMe) system in tomato for clonal gamete production, showing the potential to exploit autopolyploid progressive heterosis by stacking genomes from four grandparents in tetraploid hybrids, developed from crossing MiMe hybrids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Jawad Akbar Awan
- Agricultural Biotechnology Division, National Institute for Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering (NIBGE), Constituent College of Pakistan Institute of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Jhang Road, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Imran Amin
- Agricultural Biotechnology Division, National Institute for Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering (NIBGE), Constituent College of Pakistan Institute of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Jhang Road, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Gotz Hensel
- Centre for Plant Genome Engineering, Institute of Plant Biochemistry, Heinrich-Heine-University, Universitätsstraße 1, Düsseldorf, Germany; Centre of Region Haná for Biotechnological and Agricultural Research, Czech Advanced Technology and Research Institute, Palacký University Olomouc, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Shahid Mansoor
- Agricultural Biotechnology Division, National Institute for Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering (NIBGE), Constituent College of Pakistan Institute of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Jhang Road, Faisalabad, Pakistan; International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences, University of Karachi, Karachi, Pakistan.
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2
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Qu Y, Fernie AR, Liu J, Yan J. Doubled haploid technology and synthetic apomixis: Recent advances and applications in future crop breeding. MOLECULAR PLANT 2024; 17:1005-1018. [PMID: 38877700 DOI: 10.1016/j.molp.2024.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Revised: 05/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/16/2024]
Abstract
Doubled haploid (DH) technology and synthetic apomixis approaches can considerably shorten breeding cycles and enhance breeding efficiency. Compared with traditional breeding methods, DH technology offers the advantage of rapidly generating inbred lines, while synthetic apomixis can effectively fix hybrid vigor. In this review, we focus on (i) recent advances in identifying and characterizing genes responsible for haploid induction (HI), (ii) the molecular mechanisms of HI, (iii) spontaneous haploid genome doubling, and (iv) crop synthetic apomixis. We also discuss the challenges and potential solutions for future crop breeding programs utilizing DH technology and synthetic apomixis. Finally, we provide our perspectives about how to integrate DH and synthetic apomixis for precision breeding and de novo domestication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanzhi Qu
- National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China; Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Alisdair R Fernie
- Department of Molecular Physiology, Max- Planck- Institute of Molecular Plant Physiology, 14476 Potsdam-Golm, Germany; Center of Plant Systems Biology and Biotechnology, 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | - Jie Liu
- Yazhouwan National Laboratory, Sanya 572024, China.
| | - Jianbing Yan
- National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China; Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Wuhan 430070, China; Yazhouwan National Laboratory, Sanya 572024, China.
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3
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Liu Q, Han D, Cheng D, Chen J, Tian S, Wang J, Liu M, Yuan L. AtRKD5 inhibits the parthenogenic potential mediated by AtBBM. JOURNAL OF INTEGRATIVE PLANT BIOLOGY 2024; 66:1517-1531. [PMID: 38818961 DOI: 10.1111/jipb.13678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2024] [Revised: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
Parthenogenesis, the development of unfertilized egg cells into embryos, is a key component of apomixis. AtBBM (BABY BOOM), a crucial regulator of embryogenesis in Arabidopsis, possesses the capacity to shift nutritional growth toward reproductive growth. However, the mechanisms underlying AtBBM-induced parthenogenesis remain largely unexplored in dicot plants. Our findings revealed that in order to uphold the order of sexual reproduction, the embryo-specific promoter activity of AtBBM as well as repressors that inhibit its expression in egg cells combine to limiting its ability to induce parthenogenesis. Notably, AtRKD5, a RWP-RK domain-containing (RKD) transcription factor, binds to the 3' end of AtBBM and is identified as one of the inhibitory factors for AtBBM expression in the egg cell. In the atrkd5 mutant, we successfully achieved enhanced ectopic expression of AtBBM in egg cells, resulting in the generation of haploid offspring via parthenogenesis at a rate of 0.28%. Furthermore, by introducing chimeric Arabidopsis and rice BBM genes into the egg cell, we achieved a significant 4.6-fold enhancement in haploid induction through the atdmp8/9 mutant. These findings lay a strong foundation for further exploration of the BBM-mediated parthenogenesis mechanism and the improvement of haploid breeding efficiency mediated by the dmp8/9 mutant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiyan Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Resistance and High-Efficiency Production, College of Horticulture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, China
| | - Dongfen Han
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Resistance and High-Efficiency Production, College of Horticulture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, China
| | - Denghu Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Resistance and High-Efficiency Production, College of Horticulture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, China
| | - Jinfan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Resistance and High-Efficiency Production, College of Horticulture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, China
| | - Shujuan Tian
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Resistance and High-Efficiency Production, College of Horticulture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, China
| | - Jiafa Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Resistance and High-Efficiency Production, College of Horticulture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, China
| | - Man Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Resistance and High-Efficiency Production, College of Horticulture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, China
| | - Li Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Resistance and High-Efficiency Production, College of Horticulture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, China
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Huang Y, Liang Y, Xie Y, Rao Y, Xiong J, Liu C, Wang C, Wang X, Qian Q, Wang K. Efficient haploid induction via egg cell expression of dandelion PARTHENOGENESIS in foxtail millet (Setaria italica). PLANT BIOTECHNOLOGY JOURNAL 2024; 22:1797-1799. [PMID: 38318962 PMCID: PMC11182582 DOI: 10.1111/pbi.14302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Yong Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Rice Biology and BreedingChina National Rice Research InstituteHangzhouChina
| | - Yuqing Liang
- College of Life SciencesShanxi Agricultural UniversityTaiguChina
| | - Yingying Xie
- College of Chemistry and Life SciencesZhejiang Normal UniversityJinhuaChina
| | - Yuchun Rao
- College of Chemistry and Life SciencesZhejiang Normal UniversityJinhuaChina
| | - Jie Xiong
- State Key Laboratory of Rice Biology and BreedingChina National Rice Research InstituteHangzhouChina
- Hainan Seed Industry LaboratorySanyaChina
| | - Chaolei Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Rice Biology and BreedingChina National Rice Research InstituteHangzhouChina
| | - Chun Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Rice Biology and BreedingChina National Rice Research InstituteHangzhouChina
| | - Xingchun Wang
- College of Life SciencesShanxi Agricultural UniversityTaiguChina
| | - Qian Qian
- State Key Laboratory of Rice Biology and BreedingChina National Rice Research InstituteHangzhouChina
- Yazhouwan National LaboratorySanyaChina
| | - Kejian Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Rice Biology and BreedingChina National Rice Research InstituteHangzhouChina
- Hainan Seed Industry LaboratorySanyaChina
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5
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Eggers EJ, Su Y, van der Poel E, Flipsen M, de Vries ME, Bachem CWB, Visser RGF, Lindhout P. Identification, Elucidation and Deployment of a Cytoplasmic Male Sterility System for Hybrid Potato. BIOLOGY 2024; 13:447. [PMID: 38927327 PMCID: PMC11200408 DOI: 10.3390/biology13060447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2024] [Revised: 06/12/2024] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
Recent advances in diploid F1 hybrid potato breeding rely on the production of inbred lines using the S-locus inhibitor (Sli) gene. As a result of this method, female parent lines are self-fertile and require emasculation before hybrid seed production. The resulting F1 hybrids are self-fertile as well and produce many undesirable berries in the field. Utilization of cytoplasmic male sterility would eliminate the need for emasculation, resulting in more efficient hybrid seed production and male sterile F1 hybrids. We observed plants that completely lacked anthers in an F2 population derived from an interspecific cross between diploid S. tuberosum and S. microdontum. We studied the antherless trait to determine its suitability for use in hybrid potato breeding. We mapped the causal locus to the short arm of Chromosome 6, developed KASP markers for the antherless (al) locus and introduced it into lines with T and A cytoplasm. We found that antherless type male sterility is not expressed in T and A cytoplasm, proving that it is a form of CMS. We hybridized male sterile al/al plants with P cytoplasm with pollen from al/al plants with T and A cytoplasm and we show that the resulting hybrids set significantly fewer berries in the field. Here, we show that the antherless CMS system can be readily deployed in diploid F1 hybrid potato breeding to improve hybridization efficiency and reduce berry set in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ernst-Jan Eggers
- Solynta, Dreijenlaan 2, 6703 HA Wageningen, The Netherlands (C.W.B.B.)
- Plant Breeding, Wageningen University & Research, P.O. Box 386, 6700 AJ Wageningen, The Netherlands (R.G.F.V.)
- Graduate School Experimental Plant Sciences, Wageningen University & Research, 6708 PB Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Ying Su
- Solynta, Dreijenlaan 2, 6703 HA Wageningen, The Netherlands (C.W.B.B.)
| | - Esmee van der Poel
- Plant Breeding, Wageningen University & Research, P.O. Box 386, 6700 AJ Wageningen, The Netherlands (R.G.F.V.)
| | - Martijn Flipsen
- Hogeschool Arnhem Nijmegen, Laan van Scheut 2, 6525 EM Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | | | - Christian W. B. Bachem
- Solynta, Dreijenlaan 2, 6703 HA Wageningen, The Netherlands (C.W.B.B.)
- Plant Breeding, Wageningen University & Research, P.O. Box 386, 6700 AJ Wageningen, The Netherlands (R.G.F.V.)
| | - Richard G. F. Visser
- Plant Breeding, Wageningen University & Research, P.O. Box 386, 6700 AJ Wageningen, The Netherlands (R.G.F.V.)
| | - Pim Lindhout
- Solynta, Dreijenlaan 2, 6703 HA Wageningen, The Netherlands (C.W.B.B.)
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Carballo J, Achilli A, Hernández F, Bocchini M, Pasten MC, Marconi G, Albertini E, Zappacosta D, Echenique V. Differentially methylated genes involved in reproduction and ploidy levels in recent diploidized and tetraploidized Eragrostis curvula genotypes. PLANT REPRODUCTION 2024; 37:133-145. [PMID: 38055074 PMCID: PMC11180019 DOI: 10.1007/s00497-023-00490-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023]
Abstract
Epigenetics studies changes in gene activity without changes in the DNA sequence. Methylation is an epigenetic mechanism important in many pathways, such as biotic and abiotic stresses, cell division, and reproduction. Eragrostis curvula is a grass species reproducing by apomixis, a clonal reproduction by seeds. This work employed the MCSeEd technique to identify deferentially methylated positions, regions, and genes in the CG, CHG, and CHH contexts in E. curvula genotypes with similar genomic backgrounds but with different reproductive modes and ploidy levels. In this way, we focused the analysis on the cvs. Tanganyika INTA (4x, apomictic), Victoria (2x, sexual), and Bahiense (4x, apomictic). Victoria was obtained from the diploidization of Tanganyika INTA, while Bahiense was produced from the tetraploidization of Victoria. This study showed that polyploid/apomictic genotypes had more differentially methylated positions and regions than the diploid sexual ones. Interestingly, it was possible to observe fewer differentially methylated positions and regions in CG than in the other contexts, meaning CG methylation is conserved across the genotypes regardless of the ploidy level and reproductive mode. In the comparisons between sexual and apomictic genotypes, we identified differentially methylated genes involved in the reproductive pathways, specifically in meiosis, cell division, and fertilization. Another interesting observation was that several differentially methylated genes between the diploid and the original tetraploid genotype recovered their methylation status after tetraploidization, suggesting that methylation is an important mechanism involved in reproduction and ploidy changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Carballo
- Centro de Recursos Naturales Renovables de la Zona Semiárida (CERZOS-CCT-CONICET Bahía Blanca), Camino de La Carrindanga Km 7, 8000, Bahía Blanca, Argentina
| | - A Achilli
- Centro de Recursos Naturales Renovables de la Zona Semiárida (CERZOS-CCT-CONICET Bahía Blanca), Camino de La Carrindanga Km 7, 8000, Bahía Blanca, Argentina
| | - F Hernández
- Centro de Recursos Naturales Renovables de la Zona Semiárida (CERZOS-CCT-CONICET Bahía Blanca), Camino de La Carrindanga Km 7, 8000, Bahía Blanca, Argentina
- Departamento de Agronomía, Universidad Nacional del Sur (UNS), San Andrés 800, 8000, Bahía Blanca, Argentina
| | - M Bocchini
- Dipartimento di Scienze Agrarie, Alimentari e Ambientali, Università degli Studi di Perugia, 06121, Perugia, Italy
| | - M C Pasten
- Centro de Recursos Naturales Renovables de la Zona Semiárida (CERZOS-CCT-CONICET Bahía Blanca), Camino de La Carrindanga Km 7, 8000, Bahía Blanca, Argentina
| | - G Marconi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Agrarie, Alimentari e Ambientali, Università degli Studi di Perugia, 06121, Perugia, Italy
| | - E Albertini
- Dipartimento di Scienze Agrarie, Alimentari e Ambientali, Università degli Studi di Perugia, 06121, Perugia, Italy.
| | - D Zappacosta
- Centro de Recursos Naturales Renovables de la Zona Semiárida (CERZOS-CCT-CONICET Bahía Blanca), Camino de La Carrindanga Km 7, 8000, Bahía Blanca, Argentina.
- Departamento de Agronomía, Universidad Nacional del Sur (UNS), San Andrés 800, 8000, Bahía Blanca, Argentina.
| | - V Echenique
- Centro de Recursos Naturales Renovables de la Zona Semiárida (CERZOS-CCT-CONICET Bahía Blanca), Camino de La Carrindanga Km 7, 8000, Bahía Blanca, Argentina.
- Departamento de Agronomía, Universidad Nacional del Sur (UNS), San Andrés 800, 8000, Bahía Blanca, Argentina.
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Zheng X, Duan Y, Zheng H, Tang H, Zheng L, Yu X. Genome-Wide Identification and Characterization of the RWP-RK Proteins in Zanthoxylum armatum. Genes (Basel) 2024; 15:665. [PMID: 38927601 PMCID: PMC11202622 DOI: 10.3390/genes15060665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2024] [Revised: 05/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Apomixis is a common reproductive characteristic of Zanthoxylum plants, and RWP-RKs are plant-specific transcription factors known to regulate embryonic development. However, the genome-wide analysis and function prediction of RWP-RK family genes in Z. armatum are unclear. In this study, 36 ZaRWP-RK transcription factors were identified in the genome of Z. armatum, among which 15 genes belonged to the RKD subfamily and 21 belonged to the NLP subfamily. Duplication events of ZaRWP-RK genes were mainly segmental duplication, and synteny analysis revealed a close phylogenetic relationship between Z. armatum and Arabidopsis. The analysis of cis-elements indicated that ZaRWP-RK genes may be involved in the regulation of the embryonic development of Z. armatum by responding to plant hormones such as abscisic acid, auxin, and gibberellin. Results of a real-time PCR showed that the expression levels of most ZaRWP-RK genes were significantly increased from flowers to young fruits. Protein-protein interaction network analysis further revealed the potential roles of the ZaRWP-RK proteins in apomixis. Collectively, this study is expected to improve our understanding of ZaRWP-RK transcription factors and provide a theoretical basis for future investigations into the ZaRWP-RK genes and their regulatory mechanisms in the apomixis process of Z. armatum.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Xiaobo Yu
- Southwest Research Center for Cross Breeding of Special Economic Plants, School of Life Science, Leshan Normal University, Leshan 614000, China; (X.Z.); (Y.D.); (H.Z.); (H.T.); (L.Z.)
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Hojsgaard D, Nagel M, Feingold SE, Massa GA, Bradshaw JE. New Frontiers in Potato Breeding: Tinkering with Reproductive Genes and Apomixis. Biomolecules 2024; 14:614. [PMID: 38927018 PMCID: PMC11202281 DOI: 10.3390/biom14060614] [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: 04/03/2024] [Revised: 05/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Potato is the most important non-cereal crop worldwide, and, yet, genetic gains in potato have been traditionally delayed by the crop's biology, mostly the genetic heterozygosity of autotetraploid cultivars and the intricacies of the reproductive system. Novel site-directed genetic modification techniques provide opportunities for designing climate-smart cultivars, but they also pose new possibilities (and challenges) for breeding potato. As potato species show a remarkable reproductive diversity, and their ovules have a propensity to develop apomixis-like phenotypes, tinkering with reproductive genes in potato is opening new frontiers in potato breeding. Developing diploid varieties instead of tetraploid ones has been proposed as an alternative way to fill the gap in genetic gain, that is being achieved by using gene-edited self-compatible genotypes and inbred lines to exploit hybrid seed technology. In a similar way, modulating the formation of unreduced gametes and synthesizing apomixis in diploid or tetraploid potatoes may help to reinforce the transition to a diploid hybrid crop or enhance introgression schemes and fix highly heterozygous genotypes in tetraploid varieties. In any case, the induction of apomixis-like phenotypes will shorten the time and costs of developing new varieties by allowing the multi-generational propagation through true seeds. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on potato reproductive phenotypes and underlying genes, discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using potato's natural variability to modulate reproductive steps during seed formation, and consider strategies to synthesize apomixis. However, before we can fully modulate the reproductive phenotypes, we need to understand the genetic basis of such diversity. Finally, we visualize an active, central role for genebanks in this endeavor by phenotyping properly genotyped genebank accessions and new introductions to provide scientists and breeders with reliable data and resources for developing innovations to exploit market opportunities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego Hojsgaard
- Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK), 06466 Seeland, Germany;
| | - Manuela Nagel
- Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK), 06466 Seeland, Germany;
| | - Sergio E. Feingold
- Laboratorio de Agrobiotecnología, EEA Balcarce-IPADS (UEDD INTA–CONICET), Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Agropecuaria (INTA), Balcarce B7620, Argentina; (S.E.F.); (G.A.M.)
| | - Gabriela A. Massa
- Laboratorio de Agrobiotecnología, EEA Balcarce-IPADS (UEDD INTA–CONICET), Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Agropecuaria (INTA), Balcarce B7620, Argentina; (S.E.F.); (G.A.M.)
- Facultad de Ciencias Agrarias, Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata, Balcarce B7620, Argentina
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9
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Quiroz LF, Gondalia N, Brychkova G, McKeown PC, Spillane C. Haploid rhapsody: the molecular and cellular orchestra of in vivo haploid induction in plants. THE NEW PHYTOLOGIST 2024; 241:1936-1949. [PMID: 38180262 DOI: 10.1111/nph.19523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
In planta haploid induction (HI), which reduces the chromosome number in the progeny after fertilization, has garnered increasing attention for its significant potential in crop breeding and genetic research. Despite the identification of several natural and synthetic HI systems in different plant species, the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying these HI systems remain largely unknown. This review synthesizes the current understanding of HI systems in plants (with a focus on genes and molecular mechanisms involved), including the molecular and cellular interactions which orchestrate the HI process. As most HI systems can function across taxonomic boundaries, we particularly discuss the evidence for conserved mechanisms underlying the process. These include mechanisms involved in preserving chromosomal integrity, centromere function, gamete communication and/or fusion, and maintenance of karyogamy. While significant discoveries and advances on haploid inducer systems have arisen over the past decades, we underscore gaps in understanding and deliberate on directions for further research for a more comprehensive understanding of in vivo HI processes in plants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis Felipe Quiroz
- Agriculture and Bioeconomy Research Centre, Ryan Institute, University of Galway, University Road, Galway, H91 REW4, Ireland
| | - Nikita Gondalia
- Agriculture and Bioeconomy Research Centre, Ryan Institute, University of Galway, University Road, Galway, H91 REW4, Ireland
| | - Galina Brychkova
- Agriculture and Bioeconomy Research Centre, Ryan Institute, University of Galway, University Road, Galway, H91 REW4, Ireland
| | - Peter C McKeown
- Agriculture and Bioeconomy Research Centre, Ryan Institute, University of Galway, University Road, Galway, H91 REW4, Ireland
| | - Charles Spillane
- Agriculture and Bioeconomy Research Centre, Ryan Institute, University of Galway, University Road, Galway, H91 REW4, Ireland
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Honari M, Ashnest JR, Sharbel TF. Sex- versus apomixis-specific polymorphisms in the 5'UTR of APOLLO from Boechera shift gene expression from somatic to reproductive tissues in Arabidopsis. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2024; 15:1308059. [PMID: 38476690 PMCID: PMC10929715 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2024.1308059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
Introduction Among candidate genes underlying the control components of apomixis, APOLLO is known for its strong linkage to apomeiosis in the genus Boechera. The gene has "apo alleles," which are characterized by a set of linked apomixis-specific polymorphisms, and "sex alleles." All apomictic Boechera genotypes are heterozygous for the apo/sex alleles, whereas all sexual genotypes are homozygous for sex alleles. Methods In this study, native and synthetic APOLLO promoters were characterized by detecting the expression level of the β-glucuronidase (GUS) gene in Arabidopsis. Results Comparing various flower developmental stages in transgenic lines containing different constructs with 2-kb native transgenic lines revealed that changes to the APOLLO promoter causes shifts in tissue and developmental stage specificity of GUS expression. Importantly, several apomixis-specific polymorphisms in the 5'UTR change the timing and location of GUS activity from somatic to reproductive tissues. Discussion These synthetic data simulate a plausible evolutionary process, whereby apomixis-specific gene activity can be achieved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Honari
- Global Institute for Food Security, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
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11
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Liang R, Gao C. Creating one-line hybrid crops by synthetic apomixis. MOLECULAR PLANT 2024; 17:16-18. [PMID: 38105558 DOI: 10.1016/j.molp.2023.12.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Ronghong Liang
- New Cornerstone Science Laboratory, Center for Genome Editing, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Caixia Gao
- New Cornerstone Science Laboratory, Center for Genome Editing, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China; College of Advanced Agricultural Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
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12
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Song M, Wang W, Ji C, Li S, Liu W, Hu X, Feng A, Ruan S, Du S, Wang H, Dai K, Guo L, Qian Q, Si H, Hu X. Simultaneous production of high-frequency synthetic apomixis with high fertility and improved agronomic traits in hybrid rice. MOLECULAR PLANT 2024; 17:4-7. [PMID: 37990497 DOI: 10.1016/j.molp.2023.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023]
Abstract
The current apomixis system used in fixing heterozygosity suffers from the problems of low fertility and limited apomixis induction rate. This study implies that egg-cell-specific expression of dandelion's PAR combined with MiMe in hybrid rice can efficiently trigger highly fertile synthetic apomixis for effective clonal propagation of hybrids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengqiu Song
- College of Agronomy, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, Anhui 230036, China
| | - Wumei Wang
- Rice Research Institute, Anhui Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hefei, Anhui 230031, China
| | - Chun Ji
- Jiangxi Modern Seed Industry, Co., Nanchang, Jiangxi 330026, China
| | - Shengnan Li
- College of Agronomy, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, Anhui 230036, China
| | - Wei Liu
- College of Agronomy, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, Anhui 230036, China
| | - Xiaoyu Hu
- College of Agronomy, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, Anhui 230036, China
| | - Anhui Feng
- College of Agronomy, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, Anhui 230036, China
| | - Shuang Ruan
- College of Agronomy, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, Anhui 230036, China
| | - Shiyun Du
- Rice Research Institute, Anhui Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hefei, Anhui 230031, China
| | - Huan Wang
- Jiangxi Modern Seed Industry, Co., Nanchang, Jiangxi 330026, China
| | - Kui Dai
- Jiangxi Modern Seed Industry, Co., Nanchang, Jiangxi 330026, China
| | - Longbiao Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Rice Biology, China National Rice Research Institute, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310006, China
| | - Qian Qian
- State Key Laboratory of Rice Biology, China National Rice Research Institute, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310006, China.
| | - Hongqi Si
- College of Agronomy, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, Anhui 230036, China.
| | - Xingming Hu
- College of Agronomy, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, Anhui 230036, China.
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13
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Jia HH, Xu YT, Yin ZJ, Qing M, Xie KD, Guo WW, Wu XM. Genome-wide identification of the C2H2-Zinc finger gene family and functional validation of CsZFP7 in citrus nucellar embryogenesis. PLANT REPRODUCTION 2023; 36:287-300. [PMID: 37247027 DOI: 10.1007/s00497-023-00470-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
KEY MESSAGE Genome-wide identification of C2H2-ZF gene family in the poly- and mono-embryonic citrus species and validation of the positive role of CsZFP7 in sporophytic apomixis. The C2H2 zinc finger (C2H2-ZF) gene family is involved in plant vegetative and reproductive development. Although a large number of C2H2 zinc-finger proteins (C2H2-ZFPs) have been well characterized in some horticultural plants, little is known about the C2H2-ZFPs and their function in citrus. In this work, we performed a genome-wide sequence analysis and identified 97 and 101 putative C2H2-ZF gene family members in the genomes of sweet orange (C. sinensis, poly-embryonic) and pummelo (C. grandis, mono-embryonic), respectively. Phylogenetic analysis categorized citrus C2H2-ZF gene family into four clades, and their possible functions were inferred. According to the numerous regulatory elements on promoter, citrus C2H2-ZFPs can be divided into five different regulatory function types that indicate functional differentiation. RNA-seq data revealed 20 differentially expressed C2H2-ZF genes between poly-embryonic and mono-embryonic ovules at two stages of citrus nucellar embryogenesis, among them CsZFP52 specifically expressed in mono-embryonic pummelo ovules, while CsZFP7, 37, 44, 45, 67 and 68 specifically expressed in poly-embryonic sweet orange ovules. RT-qPCR further validated that CsZFP7 specifically expressed at higher levels in poly-embryonic ovules, and down-regulation of CsZFP7 in the poly-embryonic mini citrus (Fortunella hindsii) increased rate of mono-embryonic seeds compared with the wild type, indicating the regulatory potential of CsZFP7 in nucellar embryogenesis of citrus. This work provided a comprehensive analysis of C2H2-ZF gene family in citrus, including genome organization and gene structure, phylogenetic relationships, gene duplications, possible cis-elements on promoter regions and expression profiles, especially in the poly- and mono-embryogenic ovules, and suggested that CsZFP7 is involved in nucellar embryogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui-Hui Jia
- National Key Laboratory for Germplasm Innovation and Utilization of Horticultural Crops, College of Horticulture and Forestry Sciences, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Yuan-Tao Xu
- National Key Laboratory for Germplasm Innovation and Utilization of Horticultural Crops, College of Horticulture and Forestry Sciences, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Zhu-Jun Yin
- National Key Laboratory for Germplasm Innovation and Utilization of Horticultural Crops, College of Horticulture and Forestry Sciences, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Mei Qing
- National Key Laboratory for Germplasm Innovation and Utilization of Horticultural Crops, College of Horticulture and Forestry Sciences, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Kai-Dong Xie
- National Key Laboratory for Germplasm Innovation and Utilization of Horticultural Crops, College of Horticulture and Forestry Sciences, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Wen-Wu Guo
- National Key Laboratory for Germplasm Innovation and Utilization of Horticultural Crops, College of Horticulture and Forestry Sciences, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Xiao-Meng Wu
- National Key Laboratory for Germplasm Innovation and Utilization of Horticultural Crops, College of Horticulture and Forestry Sciences, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China.
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14
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Dai D, Xie C, Zhou Y, Bo D, Zhang S, Mao S, Liao Y, Cui S, Zhu Z, Wang X, Li F, Peng D, Zheng J, Sun M. Unzipped chromosome-level genomes reveal allopolyploid nematode origin pattern as unreduced gamete hybridization. Nat Commun 2023; 14:7156. [PMID: 37935661 PMCID: PMC10630426 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-42700-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The formation and consequences of polyploidization in animals with clonal reproduction remain largely unknown. Clade I root-knot nematodes (RKNs), characterized by parthenogenesis and allopolyploidy, show a widespread geographical distribution and extensive agricultural destruction. Here, we generated 4 unzipped polyploid RKN genomes and identified a putative novel alternative telomeric element. Then we reconstructed 4 chromosome-level assemblies and resolved their genome structures as AAB for triploid and AABB for tetraploid. The phylogeny of subgenomes revealed polyploid RKN origin patterns as hybridization between haploid and unreduced gametes. We also observed extensive chromosomal fusions and homologous gene expression decrease after polyploidization, which might offset the disadvantages of clonal reproduction and increase fitness in polyploid RKNs. Our results reveal a rare pathway of polyploidization in parthenogenic polyploid animals and provide a large number of high-precision genetic resources that could be used for RKN prevention and control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dadong Dai
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
- College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Chuanshuai Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
- College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Yayi Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Agricultural Bioinformatics, College of Informatics, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Dexin Bo
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Agricultural Bioinformatics, College of Informatics, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Shurong Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
- College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Shengqiang Mao
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Agricultural Bioinformatics, College of Informatics, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Yucheng Liao
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Agricultural Bioinformatics, College of Informatics, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Simeng Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
- College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Zhaolu Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Agricultural Bioinformatics, College of Informatics, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Xueyu Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
- College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Fanling Li
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
- College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Donghai Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China.
- College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China.
| | - Jinshui Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China.
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Agricultural Bioinformatics, College of Informatics, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China.
| | - Ming Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China.
- College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China.
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15
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Kan Q, Li Q. Post-transcriptional and translational regulation of plant gene expression by transposons. CURRENT OPINION IN PLANT BIOLOGY 2023; 75:102438. [PMID: 37619514 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbi.2023.102438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 07/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
Transposons are mobile DNA sequences that can move within the genome and integrate in new genomic locations. They are widespread in eukaryotes and prokaryotes and can influence gene expression when landing within or nearby a gene. Although transposon-induced regulation of gene expression at the transcriptional level has been extensively studied, there has been less focus on regulation at the post-transcriptional and translational levels. Recent studies in maize (Zea mays) and other plant species suggest that transposon insertions can affect RNA processing, RNA stability, protein translation and protein stability. We will describe the diverse mechanisms by which transposons can influence gene expression at the post-transcriptional and translational levels, and discuss the interactions between these mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiuxin Kan
- National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Qing Li
- National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China; Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Wuhan 430070, China.
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16
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Siena LA, Michaud C, Selles B, Vega JM, Pessino SC, Ingouff M, Ortiz JPA, Leblanc O. TRIMETHYLGUANOSINE SYNTHASE1 mutations decanalize female germline development in Arabidopsis. THE NEW PHYTOLOGIST 2023; 240:597-612. [PMID: 37548040 DOI: 10.1111/nph.19179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
Here, we report the characterization of a plant RNA methyltransferase, orthologous to yeast trimethylguanosine synthase1 (Tgs1p) and whose downregulation was associated with apomixis in Paspalum grasses. Using phylogenetic analyses and yeast complementation, we determined that land plant genomes all encode a conserved, specific TGS1 protein. Next, we studied the role of TGS1 in female reproduction using reporter lines and loss-of-function mutants in Arabidopsis thaliana. pAtTGS1:AtTGS1 reporters showed a dynamic expression pattern. They were highly active in the placenta and ovule primordia at emergence but, subsequently, showed weak signals in the nucellus. Although expressed throughout gametophyte development, activity became restricted to the female gamete and was also detected after fertilization during embryogenesis. TGS1 depletion altered the specification of the precursor cells that give rise to the female gametophytic generation and to the sporophyte, resulting in the formation of a functional aposporous-like lineage. Our results indicate that TGS1 participates in the mechanisms restricting cell fate acquisition to a single cell at critical transitions throughout the female reproductive lineage and, thus, expand our current knowledge of the mechanisms governing female reproductive fate in plants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorena A Siena
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Ciencias Agrarias de Rosario, CONICET-Universidad Nacional de Rosario, S2125ZAA, Zavalla, Argentina
| | | | - Benjamin Selles
- DIADE, Univ Montpellier, IRD, CIRAD, 34394, Montpellier, France
| | - Juan Manuel Vega
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Ciencias Agrarias de Rosario, CONICET-Universidad Nacional de Rosario, S2125ZAA, Zavalla, Argentina
| | - Silvina C Pessino
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Ciencias Agrarias de Rosario, CONICET-Universidad Nacional de Rosario, S2125ZAA, Zavalla, Argentina
| | - Mathieu Ingouff
- DIADE, Univ Montpellier, IRD, CIRAD, 34394, Montpellier, France
| | - Juan Pablo A Ortiz
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Ciencias Agrarias de Rosario, CONICET-Universidad Nacional de Rosario, S2125ZAA, Zavalla, Argentina
| | - Olivier Leblanc
- DIADE, Univ Montpellier, IRD, CIRAD, 34394, Montpellier, France
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17
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Pachamuthu K, Borges F. Epigenetic control of transposons during plant reproduction: From meiosis to hybrid seeds. CURRENT OPINION IN PLANT BIOLOGY 2023; 75:102419. [PMID: 37480640 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbi.2023.102419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Revised: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/24/2023]
Abstract
The regulation of transposable elements (TEs) requires overlapping epigenetic modifications that must be reinforced every cell division and generation. In plants, this is achieved by multiple pathways including small RNAs, DNA methylation, and repressive histone marks that act together to control TE expression and activity throughout the entire life cycle. However, transient TE activation is observed during reproductive transitions as a result of epigenome reprogramming, thus providing windows of opportunity for TE proliferation and epigenetic novelty. Ultimately, these events may originate complex TE-driven transcriptional networks or cell-to-cell communication strategies via mobile small RNAs. In this review, we discuss recent findings and current understanding of TE regulation during sexual plant reproduction, and its implications for fertility, early seed development, and epigenetic inheritance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kannan Pachamuthu
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, AgroParisTech, Institut Jean-Pierre Bourgin (IJPB), 78000, Versailles, France. https://twitter.com/@KannanPachamut1
| | - Filipe Borges
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, AgroParisTech, Institut Jean-Pierre Bourgin (IJPB), 78000, Versailles, France.
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18
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Bicknell R, Gaillard M, Catanach A, McGee R, Erasmuson S, Fulton B, Winefield C. Genetic mapping of the LOSS OF PARTHENOGENESIS locus in Pilosella piloselloides and the evolution of apomixis in the Lactuceae. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2023; 14:1239191. [PMID: 37692427 PMCID: PMC10485273 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2023.1239191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
Pilosella piloselloides var. praealta (syn. P. praealta; Hieracium praealtum) is a versatile model used to study gametophytic apomixis. In this system apomixis is controlled by three loci: one that controls the avoidance of meiosis (LOA), one that controls the avoidance of fertilization (LOP) and a third that controls autonomous endosperm formation (AutE). Using a unique polyhaploid mapping approach the LOP locus was mapped to a 654 kb genomic interval syntenic to linkage group 8 of Lactuca sativa. Polyhaploids form through the gametophytic action of a dominant determinant at LOP, so the mapped region represents both a functional and a physical domain for LOP in P. piloselloides. Allele sequence divergence (ASD) analysis of the PARTHENOGENESIS (PAR) gene within the LOP locus revealed that dominant PAR alleles in Pilosella remain highly similar across the genus, whilst the recessive alleles are more divergent. A previous report noted that dominant PAR alleles in both Pilosella and Taraxacum are modified by the presence of a class II transposable element (TE) in the promoter of the gene. This observation was confirmed and further extended to the related genus Hieracium. Sufficient differences were noted in the structure and location of the TE elements to conclude that TE insertional events had occurred independently in the three genera. Measures of allele crossover amongst the polyhaploids revealed that P. piloselloides is an autopolyploid species with tetrasomic inheritance. It was also noted that the dominant determinant of LOP in P. piloselloides could transmit via a diploid gamete (pollen or egg) but not via a haploid gamete. Using this information, a model is presented of how gametophytic apomixis may have evolved in several members of the Lactuceae, a tribe of the Asteraceae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ross Bicknell
- Department of Breeding and Genomics, The New Zealand Institute for Plant and Food Research Limited, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Marion Gaillard
- Department of Plant and Microbial Biology, University of Zürich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Andrew Catanach
- Department of Breeding and Genomics, The New Zealand Institute for Plant and Food Research Limited, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Robert McGee
- Department of Plant Science, McGill University, Lincoln, QC, Canada
| | - Sylvia Erasmuson
- Department of Breeding and Genomics, The New Zealand Institute for Plant and Food Research Limited, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Beatrice Fulton
- Department of Breeding and Genomics, The New Zealand Institute for Plant and Food Research Limited, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Christopher Winefield
- Department of Wine, Food and Molecular Biosciences, Lincoln University, Canterbury, New Zealand
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19
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Rojek J, Ohad N. The phenomenon of autonomous endosperm in sexual and apomictic plants. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL BOTANY 2023; 74:4324-4348. [PMID: 37155961 PMCID: PMC10433939 DOI: 10.1093/jxb/erad168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Endosperm is a key nutritive tissue that supports the developing embryo or seedling, and serves as a major nutritional source for human and livestock feed. In sexually-reproducing flowering plants, it generally develops after fertilization. However, autonomous endosperm (AE) formation (i.e. independent of fertilization) is also possible. Recent findings of AE loci/ genes and aberrant imprinting in native apomicts, together with a successful initiation of parthenogenesis in rice and lettuce, have enhanced our understanding of the mechanisms bridging sexual and apomictic seed formation. However, the mechanisms driving AE development are not well understood. This review presents novel aspects related to AE development in sexual and asexual plants underlying stress conditions as the primary trigger for AE. Both application of hormones to unfertilized ovules and mutations that impair epigenetic regulation lead to AE development in sexual Arabidopsis thaliana, which may point to a common pathway for both phenomena. Apomictic-like AE development under experimental conditions can take place due to auxin-dependent gene expression and/or DNA methylation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Rojek
- Department of Plant Cytology and Embryology, Faculty of Biology, University of Gdansk, Gdansk, Poland
| | - Nir Ohad
- School of Plant Sciences and Food Security, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
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20
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Mao Y, Nakel T, Erbasol Serbes I, Joshi S, Tekleyohans DG, Baum T, Groß-Hardt R. ECS1 and ECS2 suppress polyspermy and the formation of haploid plants by promoting double fertilization. eLife 2023; 12:e85832. [PMID: 37489742 PMCID: PMC10421590 DOI: 10.7554/elife.85832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The current pace of crop plant optimization is insufficient to meet future demands and there is an urgent need for novel breeding strategies. It was previously shown that plants tolerate the generation of triparental polyspermy-derived plants and that polyspermy can bypass hybridization barriers. Polyspermy thus has the potential to harness previously incompatible climate-adapted wild varieties for plant breeding. However, factors that influence polyspermy frequencies were not previously known. The endopeptidases ECS1 and ECS2 have been reported to prevent the attraction of supernumerary pollen tubes by cleaving the pollen tube attractant LURE1. Here, we show that these genes have an earlier function that is manifested by incomplete double fertilization in plants defective for both genes. In addition to supernumerary pollen tube attraction, ecs1 ecs2 mutants exhibit a delay in synergid disintegration, are susceptible to heterofertilization, and segregate haploid plants that lack a paternal genome contribution. Our results thus uncover ECS1 and ECS2 as the first female factors triggering the induction of maternal haploids. Capitalizing on a high-throughput polyspermy assay, we in addition show that the double mutant exhibits an increase in polyspermy frequencies. As both haploid induction and polyspermy are valuable breeding aims, our results open new avenues for accelerated generation of climate-adapted cultivars.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanbo Mao
- University of Bremen, Centre for Biomolecular InteractionsBremenGermany
| | - Thomas Nakel
- University of Bremen, Centre for Biomolecular InteractionsBremenGermany
| | | | - Saurabh Joshi
- University of Bremen, Centre for Biomolecular InteractionsBremenGermany
| | | | - Thomas Baum
- University of Bremen, Centre for Biomolecular InteractionsBremenGermany
| | - Rita Groß-Hardt
- University of Bremen, Centre for Biomolecular InteractionsBremenGermany
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21
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Xiong W, Risse J, Berke L, Zhao T, van de Geest H, Oplaat C, Busscher M, Ferreira de Carvalho J, van der Meer IM, Verhoeven KJF, Schranz ME, Vijverberg K. Phylogenomic analysis provides insights into MADS-box and TCP gene diversification and floral development of the Asteraceae, supported by de novo genome and transcriptome sequences from dandelion ( Taraxacum officinale). FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2023; 14:1198909. [PMCID: PMC10338227 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2023.1198909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023]
Abstract
The Asteraceae is the largest angiosperm family with more than 25,000 species. Individual studies have shown that MADS-box and TCP transcription factors are regulators of the development and symmetry of flowers, contributing to their iconic flower-head (capitulum) and floret. However, a systematic study of MADS-box and TCP genes across the Asteraceae is lacking. We performed a comparative analysis of genome sequences of 33 angiosperm species including our de novo assembly of diploid sexual dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) and 11 other Asteraceae to investigate the lineage-specific evolution of MADS-box and TCP genes in the Asteraceae. We compared the phylogenomic results of MADS-box and TCP genes with their expression in T. officinale floral tissues at different developmental stages to demonstrate the regulation of genes with Asteraceae-specific attributes. Here, we show that MADS-box MIKCc and TCP-CYCLOIDEA (CYC) genes have expanded in the Asteraceae. The phylogenomic analysis identified AGAMOUS-like (AG-like: SEEDSTICK [STK]-like), SEPALATA-like (SEP3-like), and TCP-PROLIFERATING CELL FACTOR (PCF)-like copies with lineage-specific genomic contexts in the Asteraceae, Cichorioideae, or dandelion. Different expression patterns of some of these gene copies suggest functional divergence. We also confirm the presence and revisit the evolutionary history of previously named “Asteraceae-Specific MADS-box genes (AS-MADS).” Specifically, we identify non-Asteraceae homologs, indicating a more ancient origin of this gene clade. Syntenic relationships support that AS-MADS is paralogous to FLOWERING LOCUS C (FLC) as demonstrated by the shared ancient duplication of FLC and SEP3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Xiong
- Biosystematics Group, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, Netherlands
| | - Judith Risse
- Bioinformatics Group, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, Netherlands
- Department of Terrestrial Ecology, Netherlands Institute of Ecology (NIOO-KNAW), Wageningen, Netherlands
| | - Lidija Berke
- Biosystematics Group, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, Netherlands
| | - Tao Zhao
- Biosystematics Group, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, Netherlands
| | | | - Carla Oplaat
- Biosystematics Group, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, Netherlands
| | - Marco Busscher
- Biosystematics Group, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, Netherlands
- Bioscience, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, Netherlands
| | - Julie Ferreira de Carvalho
- Department of Terrestrial Ecology, Netherlands Institute of Ecology (NIOO-KNAW), Wageningen, Netherlands
| | | | - Koen J. F. Verhoeven
- Department of Terrestrial Ecology, Netherlands Institute of Ecology (NIOO-KNAW), Wageningen, Netherlands
| | - M. Eric Schranz
- Biosystematics Group, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, Netherlands
| | - Kitty Vijverberg
- Biosystematics Group, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, Netherlands
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22
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Bellucci M, Caceres ME, Paolocci F, Vega JM, Ortiz JPA, Ceccarelli M, De Marchis F, Pupilli F. ORIGIN OF RECOGNITION COMPLEX 3 controls the development of maternal excess endosperm in the Paspalum simplex agamic complex (Poaceae). JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL BOTANY 2023; 74:3074-3093. [PMID: 36812152 DOI: 10.1093/jxb/erad069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Pseudogamous apomixis in Paspalum simplex generates seeds with embryos genetically identical to the mother plant and endosperms deviating from the canonical 2(maternal):1(paternal) parental genome contribution into a maternal excess 4m:1p genome ratio. In P. simplex, the gene homologous to that coding for subunit 3 of the ORIGIN OF RECOGNITION COMPLEX (PsORC3) exists in three isogenic forms: PsORC3a is apomixis specific and constitutively expressed in developing endosperm whereas PsORCb and PsORCc are up-regulated in sexual endosperms and silenced in apomictic ones. This raises the question of how the different arrangement and expression profiles of these three ORC3 isogenes are linked to seed development in interploidy crosses generating maternal excess endosperms. We demonstrate that down-regulation of PsORC3b in sexual tetraploid plants is sufficient to restore seed fertility in interploidy 4n×2n crosses and, in turn, its expression level at the transition from proliferating to endoreduplication endosperm developmental stages dictates the fate of these seeds. Furthermore, we show that only when being maternally inherited can PsORC3c up-regulate PsORC3b. Our findings lay the basis for an innovative route-based on ORC3 manipulation-to introgress the apomictic trait into sexual crops and overcome the fertilization barriers in interploidy crosses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele Bellucci
- Institute of Biosciences and Bioresources (IBBR), National Research Council (CNR), 06128, Perugia, Italy
| | - Maria Eugenia Caceres
- Institute of Biosciences and Bioresources (IBBR), National Research Council (CNR), 06128, Perugia, Italy
| | - Francesco Paolocci
- Institute of Biosciences and Bioresources (IBBR), National Research Council (CNR), 06128, Perugia, Italy
| | - Juan Manuel Vega
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Ciencias Agrarias de Rosario (IICAR), CONICET-UNR and Laboratorio de Biología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Agrarias, Universidad Nacional de Rosario, S2125ZAA, Zavalla, Argentina
| | - Juan Pablo Amelio Ortiz
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Ciencias Agrarias de Rosario (IICAR), CONICET-UNR and Laboratorio de Biología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Agrarias, Universidad Nacional de Rosario, S2125ZAA, Zavalla, Argentina
| | - Marilena Ceccarelli
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnology, University of Perugia, 06123, Perugia, Italy
| | - Francesca De Marchis
- Institute of Biosciences and Bioresources (IBBR), National Research Council (CNR), 06128, Perugia, Italy
| | - Fulvio Pupilli
- Institute of Biosciences and Bioresources (IBBR), National Research Council (CNR), 06128, Perugia, Italy
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23
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Mahlandt A, Singh DK, Mercier R. Engineering apomixis in crops. TAG. THEORETICAL AND APPLIED GENETICS. THEORETISCHE UND ANGEWANDTE GENETIK 2023; 136:131. [PMID: 37199785 DOI: 10.1007/s00122-023-04357-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Apomixis is an asexual mode of reproduction through seeds where progeny are clones of the mother plants. Naturally apomictic modes of reproduction are found in hundreds of plant genera distributed across more than 30 plant families, but are absent in major crop plants. Apomixis has the potential to be a breakthrough technology by allowing the propagation through seed of any genotype, including F1 hybrids. Here, we have summarized the recent progress toward synthetic apomixis, where combining targeted modifications of both the meiosis and fertilization processes leads to the production of clonal seeds at high frequencies. Despite some remaining challenges, the technology has approached a level of maturity that allows its consideration for application in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Mahlandt
- Department of Chromosome Biology, Max Planck Institute for Plant Breeding Research, Carl-von-Linné-Weg 10, Cologne, Germany
| | - Dipesh Kumar Singh
- Department of Chromosome Biology, Max Planck Institute for Plant Breeding Research, Carl-von-Linné-Weg 10, Cologne, Germany
| | - Raphael Mercier
- Department of Chromosome Biology, Max Planck Institute for Plant Breeding Research, Carl-von-Linné-Weg 10, Cologne, Germany.
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24
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Abstract
Wang and Underwood introduce apomixis in plants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yazhong Wang
- Department of Chromosome Biology, Max Planck Institute for Plant Breeding Research, Carl-von-Linné-Weg 10, 50829 Cologne, Germany
| | - Charles J Underwood
- Department of Chromosome Biology, Max Planck Institute for Plant Breeding Research, Carl-von-Linné-Weg 10, 50829 Cologne, Germany.
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25
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Cornaro L, Banfi C, Cucinotta M, Colombo L, van Dijk PJ. Asexual reproduction through seeds: the complex case of diplosporous apomixis. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL BOTANY 2023; 74:2462-2478. [PMID: 36794770 DOI: 10.1093/jxb/erad054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Apomixis is considered a potentially revolutionary tool to generate high-quality food at a lower cost and shorter developmental time due to clonal seed production through apomeiosis and parthenogenesis. In the diplosporous type of apomixis, meiotic recombination and reduction are circumvented either by avoiding or failing meiosis or by a mitotic-like division. Here, we review the literature on diplospory, from early cytological studies dating back to the late 19th century to recent genetic findings. We discuss diplosporous developmental mechanisms, including their inheritance. Furthermore, we compare the strategies adopted to isolate the genes controlling diplospory with those to produce mutants forming unreduced gametes. Nowadays, the dramatically improved technologies of long-read sequencing and targeted CRISPR/Cas mutagenesis justify the expectation that natural diplospory genes will soon be identified. Their identification will answer questions such as how the apomictic phenotype can be superimposed upon the sexual pathway and how diplospory genes have evolved. This knowledge will contribute to the application of apomixis in agriculture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Letizia Cornaro
- Department of Biosciences, University of Milan, Via Giovanni Celoria 26, 20133, Milano, Italy
| | - Camilla Banfi
- Department of Biosciences, University of Milan, Via Giovanni Celoria 26, 20133, Milano, Italy
| | - Mara Cucinotta
- Department of Biosciences, University of Milan, Via Giovanni Celoria 26, 20133, Milano, Italy
| | - Lucia Colombo
- Department of Biosciences, University of Milan, Via Giovanni Celoria 26, 20133, Milano, Italy
| | - Peter J van Dijk
- KeyGene N.V., Agro Business Park 90, 6708 PW Wageningen, The Netherlands
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26
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Niccolò T, Anderson AW, Emidio A. Apomixis: oh, what a tangled web we have! PLANTA 2023; 257:92. [PMID: 37000270 PMCID: PMC10066125 DOI: 10.1007/s00425-023-04124-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Apomixis is a complex evolutionary trait with many possible origins. Here we discuss various clues and causes, ultimately proposing a model harmonizing the three working hypotheses on the topic. Asexual reproduction through seeds, i.e., apomixis, is the holy grail of plant biology. Its implementation in modern breeding could be a game-changer for agriculture. It has the potential to generate clonal crops and maintain valuable complex genotypes and their associated heterotic traits without inbreeding depression. The genetic basis and origins of apomixis are still unclear. There are three central hypothesis for the development of apomixis that could be: i) a deviation from the sexual developmental program caused by an asynchronous development, ii) environmentally triggered through epigenetic regulations (a polyphenism of sex), iii) relying on one or more genes/alleles. Because of the ever-increasing complexity of the topic, the path toward a detailed understanding of the mechanisms underlying apomixis remains unclear. Here, we discuss the most recent advances in the evolution perspective of this multifaceted trait. We incorporated our understanding of the effect of endogenous effectors, such as small RNAs, epigenetic regulation, hormonal pathways, protein turnover, and cell wall modification in response to an upside stress. This can be either endogenous (hybridization or polyploidization) or exogenous environmental stress, mainly due to oxidative stress and the corresponding ROS (Reacting Oxygen Species) effectors. Finally, we graphically represented this tangled web.
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Affiliation(s)
- Terzaroli Niccolò
- Dipartimento di Scienze Agrarie, Alimentari e Ambientali, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Borgo XX Giugno 74, 06121, Perugia, Italy.
| | - Aaron W Anderson
- Dipartimento di Scienze Agrarie, Alimentari e Ambientali, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Borgo XX Giugno 74, 06121, Perugia, Italy
- Fulbright Scholar From Department of Plant Sciences, University of California, Davis, USA
| | - Albertini Emidio
- Dipartimento di Scienze Agrarie, Alimentari e Ambientali, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Borgo XX Giugno 74, 06121, Perugia, Italy
- Consorzio Interuniversitario per le Biotecnologie (CIB), Trieste, Italy
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27
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Liu C, He Z, Zhang Y, Hu F, Li M, Liu Q, Huang Y, Wang J, Zhang W, Wang C, Wang K. Synthetic apomixis enables stable transgenerational transmission of heterotic phenotypes in hybrid rice. PLANT COMMUNICATIONS 2023; 4:100470. [PMID: 36325606 PMCID: PMC10030361 DOI: 10.1016/j.xplc.2022.100470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Revised: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/29/2022] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
In hybrid plants, heterosis often produces large, vigorous plants with high yields; however, hybrid seeds are generated by costly and laborious crosses of inbred parents. Apomixis, in which a plant produces a clone of itself via asexual reproduction through seeds, may produce another revolution in plant biology. Recently, synthetic apomixis enabled clonal reproduction of F1 hybrids through seeds in rice (Oryza sativa), but the inheritance of the synthetic apomixis trait and superior heterotic phenotypes across generations remained unclear. Here, we propagated clonal plants to the T4 generation and investigated their genetic and molecular stability at each generation. By analyzing agronomic traits, as well as the genome, methylome, transcriptome, and allele-specific transcriptome, we showed that the descendant clonal plants remained stable. Unexpectedly, in addition to normal clonal seeds, the plants also produced a few aneuploids that had eliminated large genomic segments in each generation. Despite the identification of rare aneuploids, the observation that the synthetic apomixis trait is stably transmitted through multiple generations helps confirm the feasibility of using apomixis in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaolei Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Rice Biology, China National Rice Research Institute, Hangzhou 310006, China
| | - Zexue He
- State Key Laboratory for Crop Genetics and Germplasm Enhancement, CIC-MCP, Nanjing Agriculture University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210095, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Rice Biology, China National Rice Research Institute, Hangzhou 310006, China
| | - Fengyue Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Rice Biology, China National Rice Research Institute, Hangzhou 310006, China
| | - Mengqi Li
- State Key Laboratory for Crop Genetics and Germplasm Enhancement, CIC-MCP, Nanjing Agriculture University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210095, China
| | - Qing Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Rice Biology, China National Rice Research Institute, Hangzhou 310006, China
| | - Yong Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Rice Biology, China National Rice Research Institute, Hangzhou 310006, China
| | - Jian Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Rice Biology, China National Rice Research Institute, Hangzhou 310006, China
| | - Wenli Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Crop Genetics and Germplasm Enhancement, CIC-MCP, Nanjing Agriculture University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210095, China.
| | - Chun Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Rice Biology, China National Rice Research Institute, Hangzhou 310006, China.
| | - Kejian Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Rice Biology, China National Rice Research Institute, Hangzhou 310006, China; Hainan Yazhou Bay Seed Lab, Sanya, Hainan 572025, China.
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28
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Ibañez VN, van Antro M, Peña-Ponton C, Milanovic-Ivanovic S, Wagemaker CAM, Gawehns F, Verhoeven KJF. Environmental and genealogical effects on DNA methylation in a widespread apomictic dandelion lineage. J Evol Biol 2023; 36:663-674. [PMID: 36810811 DOI: 10.1111/jeb.14162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2022] [Revised: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
DNA methylation in plant genomes occurs in different sequences and genomic contexts that have very different properties. DNA methylation that occurs in CG (mCG) sequence context shows transgenerational stability and high epimutation rate, and can thus provide genealogical information at short time scales. However, due to meta-stability and because mCG variants may arise due to other factors than epimutation, such as environmental stress exposure, it is not clear how well mCG captures genealogical information at micro-evolutionary time scales. Here, we analysed DNA methylation variation between accessions from a geographically widespread, apomictic common dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) lineage when grown experimentally under different light conditions. Using a reduced-representation bisulphite sequencing approach, we show that the light treatment induced differentially methylated cytosines (DMCs) in all sequence contexts, with a bias towards transposable elements. Accession differences were associated mainly with DMCs in CG context. Hierarchical clustering of samples based on total mCG profiles revealed a perfect clustering of samples by accession identity, irrespective of light conditions. Using microsatellite information as a benchmark of genetic divergence within the clonal lineage, we show that genetic divergence between accessions correlates strongly with overall mCG profiles. However, our results suggest that environmental effects that do occur in CG context may produce a heritable signal that partly dilutes the genealogical signal. Our study shows that methylation information in plants can be used to reconstruct micro-evolutionary genealogy, providing a useful tool in systems that lack genetic variation such as clonal and vegetatively propagated plants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Verónica Noé Ibañez
- Institute of Plant Sciences Paris-Saclay (IPS2), Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS, INRAE, Université Evry, Université Paris Diderot, Gif sur Yvette, France.,Department of Terrestrial Ecology, Netherlands Institute of Ecology (NIOO-KNAW), Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Morgane van Antro
- Department of Terrestrial Ecology, Netherlands Institute of Ecology (NIOO-KNAW), Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Cristian Peña-Ponton
- Department of Terrestrial Ecology, Netherlands Institute of Ecology (NIOO-KNAW), Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Slavica Milanovic-Ivanovic
- Department of Terrestrial Ecology, Netherlands Institute of Ecology (NIOO-KNAW), Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | | | - Fleur Gawehns
- Department of Terrestrial Ecology, Netherlands Institute of Ecology (NIOO-KNAW), Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Koen J F Verhoeven
- Department of Terrestrial Ecology, Netherlands Institute of Ecology (NIOO-KNAW), Wageningen, the Netherlands
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29
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Zhang X, Shi C, Li S, Zhang B, Luo P, Peng X, Zhao P, Dresselhaus T, Sun MX. A female in vivo haploid-induction system via mutagenesis of egg cell-specific peptidases. MOLECULAR PLANT 2023; 16:471-480. [PMID: 36600599 DOI: 10.1016/j.molp.2023.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Revised: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Crop breeding schemes can be significantly accelerated by using (doubled) haploid plants. In vivo haploid induction has been applied in plant breeding for decades but is still not available for all crops and genotypes, and haploidization rates are generally very low. Therefore, methodological improvements to and new concepts for haploidization are required. Here, we report a novel system for the induction of haploid plants by mutating genes encoding egg cell-specific aspartic endopeptidases (ECSs). We show that after successful sperm-egg cell fusion, ECSs play a critical role to ensure male and female nucleus fusion after fertilization. The ecs1 ecs2 double mutant can induce haploids by both selfing and hybridization in Arabidopsis and ECS mutation is also capable of producing haploids in rice. In summary, our study develops a novel approach for maternal haploidization and provides new insights into the molecular basis of fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuecheng Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Hybrid Rice, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Ce Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Hybrid Rice, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Siling Li
- State Key Laboratory of Hybrid Rice, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Bo Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Hybrid Rice, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Pan Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Hybrid Rice, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Xiongbo Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Hybrid Rice, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Peng Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Hybrid Rice, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China; Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Thomas Dresselhaus
- Cell Biology and Plant Biochemistry, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Meng-Xiang Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Hybrid Rice, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China.
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30
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Synthetic apomixis: the beginning of a new era. Curr Opin Biotechnol 2023; 79:102877. [PMID: 36628906 DOI: 10.1016/j.copbio.2022.102877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Apomixis is a process of asexual reproduction that enables plants to bypass meiosis and fertilization to generate clonal seeds that are identical to the maternal genotype. Apomixis has tremendous potential for breeding plants with desired characteristics, given its ability to fix any elite genotype. However, little is known about the origin and dynamics of natural apomictic plant systems. The introgression of apomixis-related genes from natural apomicts has achieved limited success. Therefore, synthetic apomixis, engineered to include apomeiosis, autonomous embryo formation, and autonomous endosperm development, has been proposed as a promising platform to effectuate apomixis in any crop. In this study, we have summarized recent advances in the understanding of synthetic apomixis and discussed the limitations of current synthetic apomixis systems and ways to overcome them.
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31
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Arce AL, Mencia R, Cambiagno DA, Lang PL, Liu C, Burbano HA, Weigel D, Manavella PA. Polymorphic inverted repeats near coding genes impact chromatin topology and phenotypic traits in Arabidopsis thaliana. Cell Rep 2023; 42:112029. [PMID: 36689329 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.112029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Revised: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Transposons are mobile elements that are commonly silenced to protect eukaryotic genome integrity. In plants, transposable element (TE)-derived inverted repeats (IRs) are commonly found near genes, where they affect host gene expression. However, the molecular mechanisms of such regulation are unclear in most cases. Expression of these IRs is associated with production of 24-nt small RNAs, methylation of the IRs, and drastic changes in local 3D chromatin organization. Notably, many of these IRs differ between Arabidopsis thaliana accessions, causing variation in short-range chromatin interactions and gene expression. CRISPR-Cas9-mediated disruption of two IRs leads to a switch in genome topology and gene expression with phenotypic consequences. Our data show that insertion of an IR near a gene provides an anchor point for chromatin interactions that profoundly impact the activity of neighboring loci. This turns IRs into powerful evolutionary agents that can contribute to rapid adaptation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agustín L Arce
- Instituto de Agrobiotecnología del Litoral (CONICET-UNL), Cátedra de Biología Celular y Molecular, Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, 3000 Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Regina Mencia
- Instituto de Agrobiotecnología del Litoral (CONICET-UNL), Cátedra de Biología Celular y Molecular, Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, 3000 Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Damian A Cambiagno
- Instituto de Agrobiotecnología del Litoral (CONICET-UNL), Cátedra de Biología Celular y Molecular, Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, 3000 Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Patricia L Lang
- Department of Molecular Biology, Max Planck Institute for Biology Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Chang Liu
- Department of Epigenetics, Institute of Biology, University of Hohenheim, Garbenstraße 30, 70599 Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Hernán A Burbano
- Department of Molecular Biology, Max Planck Institute for Biology Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany; Centre for Life's Origins and Evolution, University College London, London, UK
| | - Detlef Weigel
- Department of Molecular Biology, Max Planck Institute for Biology Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Pablo A Manavella
- Instituto de Agrobiotecnología del Litoral (CONICET-UNL), Cátedra de Biología Celular y Molecular, Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, 3000 Santa Fe, Argentina.
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32
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Shen K, Qu M, Zhao P. The Roads to Haploid Embryogenesis. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 12:plants12020243. [PMID: 36678955 PMCID: PMC9865920 DOI: 10.3390/plants12020243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/30/2022] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Although zygotic embryogenesis is usually studied in the field of seed biology, great attention has been paid to the methods used to generate haploid embryos due to their applications in crop breeding. These mainly include two methods for haploid embryogenesis: in vitro microspore embryogenesis and in vivo haploid embryogenesis. Although microspore culture systems and maize haploid induction systems were discovered in the 1960s, little is known about the molecular mechanisms underlying haploid formation. In recent years, major breakthroughs have been made in in vivo haploid induction systems, and several key factors, such as the matrilineal (MTL), baby boom (BBM), domain of unknown function 679 membrane protein (DMP), and egg cell-specific (ECS) that trigger in vivo haploid embryo production in both the crops and Arabidopsis models have been identified. The discovery of these haploid inducers indicates that haploid embryogenesis is highly related to gamete development, fertilization, and genome stability in ealry embryos. Here, based on recent efforts to identify key players in haploid embryogenesis and to understand its molecular mechanisms, we summarize the different paths to haploid embryogenesis, and we discuss the mechanisms of haploid generation and its potential applications in crop breeding. Although these haploid-inducing factors could assist egg cells in bypassing fertilization to initiate embryogenesis or trigger genome elimination in zygotes after fertilization to form haploid embryos, the fertilization of central cells to form endosperms is a prerequisite step for haploid formation. Deciphering the molecular and cellular mechanisms for haploid embryogenesis, increasing the haploid induction efficiency, and establishing haploid induction systems in other crops are critical for promoting the application of haploid technology in crop breeding, and these should be addressed in further studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Hybrid Rice, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Mengxue Qu
- State Key Laboratory of Hybrid Rice, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Peng Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Hybrid Rice, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
- Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Wuhan 430070, China
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33
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Chen Z, Debernardi JM, Dubcovsky J, Gallavotti A. Recent advances in crop transformation technologies. NATURE PLANTS 2022; 8:1343-1351. [PMID: 36522447 DOI: 10.1038/s41477-022-01295-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/30/2022] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Agriculture is experiencing a technological inflection point in its history, while also facing unprecedented challenges posed by human population growth and global climate changes. Key advancements in precise genome editing and new methods for rapid generation of bioengineered crops promise to both revolutionize the speed and breadth of breeding programmes and increase our ability to feed and sustain human population growth. Although genome editing enables targeted and specific modifications of DNA sequences, several existing barriers prevent the widespread adoption of editing technologies for basic and applied research in established and emerging crop species. Inefficient methods for the transformation and regeneration of recalcitrant species and the genotype dependency of the transformation process remain major hurdles. These limitations are frequent in monocotyledonous crops, which alone provide most of the calories consumed by human populations. Somatic embryogenesis and de novo induction of meristems - pluripotent groups of stem cells responsible for plant developmental plasticity - are essential strategies to quickly generate transformed plants. Here we review recent discoveries that are rapidly advancing nuclear transformation technologies and promise to overcome the obstacles that have so far impeded the widespread adoption of genome editing in crop species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zongliang Chen
- Waksman Institute of Microbiology, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Juan M Debernardi
- Department of Plant Sciences, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Chevy Chase, MD, USA
| | - Jorge Dubcovsky
- Department of Plant Sciences, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Chevy Chase, MD, USA
| | - Andrea Gallavotti
- Waksman Institute of Microbiology, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA.
- Department of Plant Biology, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA.
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34
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Wang FX, Shang GD, Wang JW. Towards a hierarchical gene regulatory network underlying somatic embryogenesis. TRENDS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2022; 27:1209-1217. [PMID: 35810071 DOI: 10.1016/j.tplants.2022.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Revised: 06/04/2022] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Genome-editing technologies have advanced in recent years but designing future crops remains limited by current methods of improving somatic embryogenesis (SE) capacity. In this Opinion, we provide an update on the molecular event by which the phytohormone auxin promotes the acquisition of plant cell totipotency through evoking massive changes in transcriptome and chromatin accessibility. We propose that the chromatin states and individual totipotency-related transcription factors (TFs) from disparate gene families organize into a hierarchical gene regulatory network underlying SE. We conclude with a discussion of the practical paths to probe the cellular origin of the somatic embryo and the epigenetic landscape of the totipotent cell state in the era of single-cell genomics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fu-Xiang Wang
- National Key Laboratory of Plant Molecular Genetics (NKLPMG), CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology (SIPPE), Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), 200032 Shanghai, PR China
| | - Guan-Dong Shang
- National Key Laboratory of Plant Molecular Genetics (NKLPMG), CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology (SIPPE), Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), 200032 Shanghai, PR China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (UCAS), Shanghai 200032, PR China
| | - Jia-Wei Wang
- National Key Laboratory of Plant Molecular Genetics (NKLPMG), CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology (SIPPE), Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), 200032 Shanghai, PR China; ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 200031, PR China.
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35
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Paetzold C, Barke BH, Hörandl E. Evolution of Transcriptomes in Early-Generation Hybrids of the Apomictic Ranunculus auricomus Complex ( Ranunculaceae). Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232213881. [PMID: 36430360 PMCID: PMC9697309 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232213881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Revised: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Hybridisation in plants may cause a shift from sexual to asexual seed formation (apomixis). Indeed, natural apomictic plants are usually hybrids, but it is still unclear how hybridisation could trigger the shift to apomixis. The genome evolution of older apomictic lineages is influenced by diverse processes such as polyploidy, mutation accumulation, and allelic sequence divergence. To disentangle the effects of hybridisation from these other factors, we analysed the transcriptomes of flowering buds from artificially produced, diploid F2 hybrids of the Ranunculus auricomus complex. The hybrids exhibited unreduced embryo sac formation (apospory) as one important component of apomixis, whereas their parental species were sexual. We revealed 2915 annotated single-copy genes that were mostly under purifying selection according to dN/dS ratios. However, pairwise comparisons revealed, after rigorous filtering, 79 genes under diversifying selection between hybrids and parents, whereby gene annotation assigned ten of them to reproductive processes. Four genes belong to the meiosis-sporogenesis phase (ASY1, APC1, MSP1, and XRI1) and represent, according to literature records, candidate genes for apospory. We conclude that hybridisation could combine novel (or existing) mutations in key developmental genes in certain hybrid lineages, and establish (together with altered gene expression profiles, as observed in other studies) a heritable regulatory mechanism for aposporous development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Paetzold
- Department of Botany and Molecular Evolution, Senckenberg Research Institute, 60325 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Birthe H. Barke
- Department of Systematics, Biodiversity and Evolution of Plants (with Herbarium), University of Goettingen, 37073 Goettingen, Germany
| | - Elvira Hörandl
- Department of Systematics, Biodiversity and Evolution of Plants (with Herbarium), University of Goettingen, 37073 Goettingen, Germany
- Correspondence:
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Rushworth CA, Wagner MR, Mitchell-Olds T, Anderson JT. The Boechera model system for evolutionary ecology. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF BOTANY 2022; 109:1939-1961. [PMID: 36371714 DOI: 10.1002/ajb2.16090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2022] [Revised: 08/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Model systems in biology expand the research capacity of individuals and the community. Closely related to Arabidopsis, the genus Boechera has emerged as an important ecological model owing to the ability to integrate across molecular, functional, and eco-evolutionary approaches. Boechera species are broadly distributed in relatively undisturbed habitats predominantly in western North America and provide one of the few experimental systems for identification of ecologically important genes through genome-wide association studies and investigations of selection with plants in their native habitats. The ecologically, evolutionarily, and agriculturally important trait of apomixis (asexual reproduction via seeds) is common in the genus, and field experiments suggest that abiotic and biotic environments shape the evolution of sex. To date, population genetic studies have focused on the widespread species B. stricta, detailing population divergence and demographic history. Molecular and ecological studies show that balancing selection maintains genetic variation in ~10% of the genome, and ecological trade-offs contribute to complex trait variation for herbivore resistance, flowering phenology, and drought tolerance. Microbiome analyses have shown that host genotypes influence leaf and root microbiome composition, and the soil microbiome influences flowering phenology and natural selection. Furthermore, Boechera offers numerous opportunities for investigating biological responses to global change. In B. stricta, climate change has induced a shift of >2 weeks in the timing of first flowering since the 1970s, altered patterns of natural selection, generated maladaptation in previously locally-adapted populations, and disrupted life history trade-offs. Here we review resources and results for this eco-evolutionary model system and discuss future research directions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maggie R Wagner
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Kansas Biological Survey and Center for Ecological Research, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, 66045, USA
| | | | - Jill T Anderson
- Department of Genetics and Odum School of Ecology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
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Noyes RD. Mendelian segregation for parthenogenetic embryo development at the diploid level in the flowering plant Erigeron. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF BOTANY 2022; 109:1641-1651. [PMID: 36112611 DOI: 10.1002/ajb2.16071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Revised: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
PREMISE Parthenogenesis is the capacity of organisms to develop embryos from unfertilized eggs. When parthenogenesis is coupled with unreduced gamete formation (apomeiosis), genetically maternal progeny result. Genetic elucidation of this form of reproduction in plants, apomixis, has important agronomic implications. However, genetic characterization of apomeiosis and parthenogenesis has been problematic in part because the traits usually co-occur and are restricted to polyploids. In this work, the inheritance of parthenogenetic embryo development, by itself, was studied at the diploid level. METHODS Progeny resulting from a cross between a diploid (2n = 18), heterozygous, parthenogenetic pollen donor, and a diploid, wildtype, sexual seed parent were evaluated. Paternity was tested with conserved orthologous sequence (COS) markers, reproductive development of F1s was evaluated with microscopy of cleared ovules, and an amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) marker (Eagc × Macg.615) co-segregating with parthenogenesis was characterized at the sequence level. RESULTS Of 102 diploid biparental progeny, 47 exhibited parthenogenetic embryo and endosperm development, and 55 lacked development of the egg and central cell. This result is consistent with Mendelian inheritance for a single locus (P = 0.43). Isolation and sequencing of the AFLP marker indicates that it is likely a portion of a Ty-Gypsy retrotransposon. Attempts to develop a sequence-characterized amplified region marker from the AFLP were unsuccessful. CONCLUSIONS This work shows that parthenogenesis can be transmitted simply at the diploid level. This advance is key in the development of a tractable system in Erigeron aimed at the identification of the parthenogenesis locus using genetic mapping strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard D Noyes
- Department of Biology, University of Central Arkansas, Conway, AR, US 72035
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Wang N, Song X, Ye J, Zhang S, Cao Z, Zhu C, Hu J, Zhou Y, Huang Y, Cao S, Liu Z, Wu X, Chai L, Guo W, Xu Q, Gaut BS, Koltunow AMG, Zhou Y, Deng X. Structural variation and parallel evolution of apomixis in citrus during domestication and diversification. Natl Sci Rev 2022; 9:nwac114. [PMID: 36415319 PMCID: PMC9671666 DOI: 10.1093/nsr/nwac114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Revised: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 09/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Apomixis, or asexual seed formation, is prevalent in Citrinae via a mechanism termed nucellar or adventitious embryony. Here, multiple embryos of a maternal genotype form directly from nucellar cells in the ovule and can outcompete the developing zygotic embryo as they utilize the sexually derived endosperm for growth. Whilst nucellar embryony enables the propagation of clonal plants of maternal genetic constitution, it is also a barrier to effective breeding through hybridization. To address the genetics and evolution of apomixis in Citrinae, a chromosome-level genome of the Hongkong kumquat (Fortunella hindsii) was assembled following a genome-wide variation map including structural variants (SVs) based on 234 Citrinae accessions. This map revealed that hybrid citrus cultivars shelter genome-wide deleterious mutations and SVs into heterozygous states free from recessive selection, which may explain the capability of nucellar embryony in most cultivars during Citrinae diversification. Analyses revealed that parallel evolution may explain the repeated origin of apomixis in different genera of Citrinae. Within Fortunella, we found that apomixis of some varieties originated via introgression. In apomictic Fortunella, the locus associated with apomixis contains the FhRWP gene, encoding an RWP-RK domain-containing protein previously shown to be required for nucellar embryogenesis in Citrus. We found the heterozygous SV in the FhRWP and CitRWP promoters from apomictic Citrus and Fortunella, due to either two or three miniature inverted transposon element (MITE) insertions. A transcription factor, FhARID, encoding an AT-rich interaction domain-containing protein binds to the MITEs in the promoter of apomictic varieties, which facilitates induction of nucellar embryogenesis. This study provides evolutionary genomic and molecular insights into apomixis in Citrinae and has potential ramifications for citrus breeding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Wang
- Key Laboratory of Horticultural Plant Biology (Ministry of Education), Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Xietian Song
- Key Laboratory of Horticultural Plant Biology (Ministry of Education), Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Junli Ye
- Key Laboratory of Horticultural Plant Biology (Ministry of Education), Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Siqi Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Horticultural Plant Biology (Ministry of Education), Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Zhen Cao
- Key Laboratory of Horticultural Plant Biology (Ministry of Education), Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Chenqiao Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Horticultural Plant Biology (Ministry of Education), Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Jianbing Hu
- Key Laboratory of Horticultural Plant Biology (Ministry of Education), Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Yin Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Horticultural Plant Biology (Ministry of Education), Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Yue Huang
- Key Laboratory of Horticultural Plant Biology (Ministry of Education), Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Shuo Cao
- Shenzhen Branch, Guangdong Laboratory of Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Genome Analysis Laboratory of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shenzhen 518124, China
| | - Zhongjie Liu
- Shenzhen Branch, Guangdong Laboratory of Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Genome Analysis Laboratory of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shenzhen 518124, China
| | - Xiaomeng Wu
- Key Laboratory of Horticultural Plant Biology (Ministry of Education), Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Lijun Chai
- Key Laboratory of Horticultural Plant Biology (Ministry of Education), Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Wenwu Guo
- Key Laboratory of Horticultural Plant Biology (Ministry of Education), Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Qiang Xu
- Key Laboratory of Horticultural Plant Biology (Ministry of Education), Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Brandon S Gaut
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Anna M G Koltunow
- Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation, University of Queensland, Brisbane 4072, Australia
| | - Yongfeng Zhou
- Shenzhen Branch, Guangdong Laboratory of Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Genome Analysis Laboratory of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shenzhen 518124, China
| | - Xiuxin Deng
- Key Laboratory of Horticultural Plant Biology (Ministry of Education), Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
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Pasten MC, Carballo J, Gallardo J, Zappacosta D, Selva JP, Rodrigo JM, Echenique V, Garbus I. A combined transcriptome - miRNAome approach revealed that a kinesin gene is differentially targeted by a novel miRNA in an apomictic genotype of Eragrostis curvula. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2022; 13:1012682. [PMID: 36247597 PMCID: PMC9563718 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2022.1012682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Weeping lovegrass (Eragrostis curvula [Shrad.] Nees) is a perennial grass typically established in semi-arid regions, with good adaptability to dry conditions and sandy soils. This polymorphic complex includes both sexual and apomictic cytotypes, with different ploidy levels (2x-8x). Diploids are known to be sexual, while most polyploids are facultative apomicts, and full apomicts have also been reported. Plant breeding studies throughout the years have focused on achieving the introgression of apomixis into species of agricultural relevance, but, given the complexity of the trait, a deeper understanding of the molecular basis of regulatory mechanisms of apomixis is still required. Apomixis is thought to be associated with silencing or disruption of the sexual pathway, and studies have shown it is influenced by epigenetic mechanisms. In a previous study, we explored the role of miRNA-mRNA interactions using two contrasting E. curvula phenotypes. Here, the sexual OTA-S, the facultative Don Walter and the obligate apomictic Tanganyika cDNA and sRNA libraries were inquired, searching for miRNA discovery and miRNA expression regulation of genes related to the reproductive mode. This allowed for the characterization of seven miRNAs and the validation of their miRNA-target interactions. Interestingly, a kinesin gene was found to be repressed in the apomictic cultivar Tanganyika, targeted by a novel miRNA that was found to be overexpressed in this genotype, suggestive of an involvement in the reproductive mode expression. Our work provided additional evidence of the contribution of the epigenetic regulation of the apomictic pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Cielo Pasten
- Centro de Recursos Naturales Renovables de la Zona Semiárida (CERZOS), Universidad Nacional del Sur-Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Bahía Blanca, Argentina
| | - José Carballo
- Centro de Recursos Naturales Renovables de la Zona Semiárida (CERZOS), Universidad Nacional del Sur-Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Bahía Blanca, Argentina
| | - Jimena Gallardo
- Centro de Recursos Naturales Renovables de la Zona Semiárida (CERZOS), Universidad Nacional del Sur-Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Bahía Blanca, Argentina
- Departamento de Agronomía, Universidad Nacional del Sur (UNS), Bahía Blanca, Argentina
| | - Diego Zappacosta
- Centro de Recursos Naturales Renovables de la Zona Semiárida (CERZOS), Universidad Nacional del Sur-Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Bahía Blanca, Argentina
- Departamento de Agronomía, Universidad Nacional del Sur (UNS), Bahía Blanca, Argentina
| | - Juan Pablo Selva
- Centro de Recursos Naturales Renovables de la Zona Semiárida (CERZOS), Universidad Nacional del Sur-Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Bahía Blanca, Argentina
- Departamento de Biología, Bioquímica y Farmacia, Universidad Nacional del Sur (UNS), Bahía Blanca, Argentina
| | - Juan Manuel Rodrigo
- Centro de Recursos Naturales Renovables de la Zona Semiárida (CERZOS), Universidad Nacional del Sur-Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Bahía Blanca, Argentina
- Departamento de Agronomía, Universidad Nacional del Sur (UNS), Bahía Blanca, Argentina
| | - Viviana Echenique
- Centro de Recursos Naturales Renovables de la Zona Semiárida (CERZOS), Universidad Nacional del Sur-Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Bahía Blanca, Argentina
- Departamento de Agronomía, Universidad Nacional del Sur (UNS), Bahía Blanca, Argentina
| | - Ingrid Garbus
- Centro de Recursos Naturales Renovables de la Zona Semiárida (CERZOS), Universidad Nacional del Sur-Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Bahía Blanca, Argentina
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Chahal LS, Conner JA, Ozias-Akins P. Phylogenetically Distant BABY BOOM Genes From Setaria italica Induce Parthenogenesis in Rice. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2022; 13:863908. [PMID: 35909735 PMCID: PMC9329937 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2022.863908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
The combination of apomixis and hybrid production is hailed as the holy grail of agriculture for the ability of apomixis to fix heterosis of F1 hybrids in succeeding generations, thereby eliminating the need for repeated crosses to produce F1 hybrids. Apomixis, asexual reproduction through seed, achieves this feat by circumventing two processes that are fundamental to sexual reproduction (meiosis and fertilization) and replacing them with apomeiosis and parthenogenesis, resulting in seeds that are clonal to the maternal parent. Parthenogenesis, embryo development without fertilization, has been genetically engineered in rice, maize, and pearl millet using PsASGR-BABY BOOM-like (PsASGR-BBML) transgenes and in rice using the OsBABY BOOM1 (OsBBM1) cDNA sequence when expressed under the control of egg cell-specific promoters. A phylogenetic analysis revealed that BABY BOOM (BBM)/BBML genes from monocots cluster within three different clades. The BBM/BBML genes shown to induce parthenogenesis cluster within clade 1 (the ASGR-BBML clade) along with orthologs from other monocot species, such as Setaria italica. For this study, we tested the parthenogenetic potential of three BBM transgenes from S. italica, each a member of a different phylogenetic BBM clade. All transgenes were genomic constructs under the control of the AtDD45 egg cell-specific promoter. All SiBBM transgenes induced various levels of parthenogenetic embryo development, resulting in viable haploid T1 seedlings. Poor seed set and lower haploid seed production were characteristics of multiple transgenic lines. The results presented in this study illustrate that further functional characterization of BBMs in zygote/embryo development is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lovepreet Singh Chahal
- Institute of Plant Breeding, Genetics, and Genomics, University of Georgia, Tifton, GA, United States
| | - Joann A. Conner
- Institute of Plant Breeding, Genetics, and Genomics, University of Georgia, Tifton, GA, United States
- Department of Horticulture, University of Georgia, Tifton, GA, United States
| | - Peggy Ozias-Akins
- Institute of Plant Breeding, Genetics, and Genomics, University of Georgia, Tifton, GA, United States
- Department of Horticulture, University of Georgia, Tifton, GA, United States
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Sidhu GS, Conner JA, Ozias-Akins P. Controlled Induction of Parthenogenesis in Transgenic Rice via Post-translational Activation of PsASGR-BBML. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2022; 13:925467. [PMID: 35873991 PMCID: PMC9305695 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2022.925467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Modern plant breeding programs rely heavily on the generation of homozygous lines, with the traditional process requiring the inbreeding of a heterozygous cross for five to six generations. Doubled haploid (DH) technology, a process of generating haploid plants from an initial heterozygote, followed by chromosome doubling, reduces the process to two generations. Currently established in vitro methods of haploid induction include androgenesis and gynogenesis, while in vivo methods are based on uni-parental genome elimination. Parthenogenesis, embryogenesis from unfertilized egg cells, presents another potential method of haploid induction. PsASGR-BABY BOOM-like, an AP2 transcription factor, induces parthenogenesis in a natural apomictic species, Pennisetum squamulatum (Cenchrus squamulatus) and PsASGR-BBML transgenes promote parthenogenesis in several crop plants, including rice, maize, and pearl millet. The dominant nature of PsASGR-BBML transgenes impedes their use in DH technology. Using a glucocorticoid-based post-translational regulation system and watering with a 100 μM DEX solution before anthesis, PsASGR-BBML can be regulated at the flowering stage to promote parthenogenesis. Conditional expression presents a novel opportunity to use parthenogenetic genes in DH production technology and to elucidate the molecular mechanism underlying parthenogenetic embryogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gurjot Singh Sidhu
- Institute of Plant Breeding, Genetics, and Genomics, University of Georgia, Tifton, GA, United States
| | - Joann A. Conner
- Institute of Plant Breeding, Genetics, and Genomics, University of Georgia, Tifton, GA, United States
- Department of Horticulture, University of Georgia, Tifton, GA, United States
| | - Peggy Ozias-Akins
- Institute of Plant Breeding, Genetics, and Genomics, University of Georgia, Tifton, GA, United States
- Department of Horticulture, University of Georgia, Tifton, GA, United States
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Berger F. Which field of research would Gregor Mendel choose in the 21st century? THE PLANT CELL 2022; 34:2462-2465. [PMID: 35238371 PMCID: PMC9252487 DOI: 10.1093/plcell/koac072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Gregor Mendel's work on segregation of traits in plants established the basic methodology and rules of genetics. The interruption of Mendel's research activities in 1870 impeded the immediate recognition of the value of his work until the dawn of the 20th century. Only then were his founding laws of genetics validated, propelling the development of biological research toward the birth of molecular biology in the second half of the 20th century. While molecular plant genetics can be viewed as the spiritual heir of Mendel's research, one might wonder whether in the 21st century Gregor Mendel would prefer to practice scientific approaches other than molecular genetics such as population genetics, comparative genomics, or the emerging field of evo-chromo. In this perspective, I review aspects of these fields that might have attracted or perplexed a 21st century Mendel.
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Mau M, Mandáková TM, Ma X, Ebersbach J, Zou L, Lysak MA, Sharbel TF. Evolution of an Apomixis-Specific Allele Class in Supernumerary Chromatin of Apomictic Boechera. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2022; 13:890038. [PMID: 35720540 PMCID: PMC9198585 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2022.890038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Asexual reproduction through seeds in plants (i.e., apomixis) is a heritable trait, and apomixis- linked loci have been identified in multiple species. However, direct identification of genomic elements is typically hindered as apomixis-linked loci and are commonly found in recombination-suppressed and repetitive regions. Heterochromatinized elements, such as B chromosomes and other supernumerary chromosomal DNA fragments have long been known to be associated with asexuality in both plants and animals and are prime candidate regions for the evolution of multiple apomixis factors controlling the individual elements of apomixis. Here, we examined molecular evolution, gene regulation, and chromosomal location of a male apomeiosis factor (UPG2), a long noncoding RNA gene, in sexual and apomictic Boechera with and without male apomeiosis (i.e., balanced and unbalanced apomicts). We revealed the origin of the gene in the apomixis genome on an apomixis-specific, supernumerary heterochromatic Boechera chromosome (Boe1). The UPG2 is active in the tapetum at male meiosis. We found allele classes specific to apomictic and sexual Boechera accessions and a third class that shares the features of both and points to a convergent transition state. Sex alleles are found only in some of the sexual accessions and have higher nucleotide divergence and lower transcriptional activity compared to apo alleles. These data demonstrate selective pressure to maintain the function of UPG2 for unreduced pollen formation in apomicts as the occasional transmission of the allele from unbalanced apomicts into sexual organisms that lead to pseudogenization and functional decay of copies in sexual organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Mau
- Apomixis Research Group, Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK), Gatersleben, Germany
- Department of Plant Sciences, College of Agriculture and Bioresources, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | | | - Xingliang Ma
- Department of Plant Sciences, College of Agriculture and Bioresources, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Jana Ebersbach
- Saskatoon Research and Development Centre, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Lifang Zou
- Department of Plant Sciences, College of Agriculture and Bioresources, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Martin A. Lysak
- Central European Institute of Technology, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia
| | - Timothy F. Sharbel
- Apomixis Research Group, Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK), Gatersleben, Germany
- Department of Plant Sciences, College of Agriculture and Bioresources, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
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Underwood CJ, Mercier R. Engineering Apomixis: Clonal Seeds Approaching the Fields. ANNUAL REVIEW OF PLANT BIOLOGY 2022; 73:201-225. [PMID: 35138881 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-arplant-102720-013958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Apomixis is a form of reproduction leading to clonal seeds and offspring that are genetically identical to the maternal plant. While apomixis naturally occurs in hundreds of plant species distributed across diverse plant families, it is absent in major crop species. Apomixis has a revolutionary potential in plant breeding, as it could allow the instant fixation and propagation though seeds of any plant genotype, most notably F1 hybrids. Mastering and implementing apomixis would reduce the cost of hybrid seed production, facilitate new types of hybrid breeding, and make it possible to harness hybrid vigor in crops that are not presently cultivated as hybrids. Synthetic apomixis can be engineered by combining modifications of meiosis and fertilization. Here, we review the current knowledge and recent major achievements toward the development of efficient apomictic systems usable in agriculture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles J Underwood
- Department of Chromosome Biology, Max Planck Institute for Plant Breeding Research, Cologne, Germany; ,
| | - Raphael Mercier
- Department of Chromosome Biology, Max Planck Institute for Plant Breeding Research, Cologne, Germany; ,
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Fairbanks DJ. Demystifying the mythical Mendel: a biographical review. Heredity (Edinb) 2022; 129:4-11. [PMID: 35414696 DOI: 10.1038/s41437-022-00526-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Gregor Mendel is widely recognised as the founder of genetics. His experiments led him to devise an enduring theory, often distilled into what are now known as the principles of segregation and independent assortment. Although he clearly articulated these principles, his theory is considerably richer, encompassing the nature of fertilisation, the role of hybridisation in evolution, and aspects often considered as exceptions or extensions, such as pleiotropy, incomplete dominance, and epistasis. In an admirable attempt to formulate a more expansive theory, he researched hybridisation in at least twenty plant genera, intentionally choosing some species whose inheritance he knew would deviate from the patterns he observed in the garden pea (Pisum sativum). Regrettably, he published the results of only a few of these additional experiments; evidence of them is largely confined to letters he wrote to Carl von Nägeli. Because most original documentation is lost or destroyed, scholars have attempted to reconstruct his history and achievements from fragmentary evidence, a situation that has led to unfortunate omissions, errors, and speculations. These range from historical uncertainties, such as what motivated his experiments, to unfounded suppositions regarding his discoveries, including assertions that he never articulated the principles ascribed to him, staunchly opposed Darwinism, fictitiously recounted experiments, and falsified data to better accord with his theory. In this review, I have integrated historical and scientific evidence within a biographical framework to dispel misconceptions and provide a clearer and more complete view of who Mendel was and what he accomplished.
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Yin PP, Tang LP, Zhang XS, Su YH. Options for Engineering Apomixis in Plants. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2022; 13:864987. [PMID: 35371148 PMCID: PMC8967160 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2022.864987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
In plants, embryogenesis and reproduction are not strictly dependent on fertilization. Several species can produce embryos in seeds asexually, a process known as apomixis. Apomixis is defined as clonal asexual reproduction through seeds, whereby the progeny is identical to the maternal genotype, and provides valuable opportunities for developing superior cultivars, as its induction in agricultural crops can facilitate the development and maintenance of elite hybrid genotypes. In this review, we summarize the current understanding of apomixis and highlight the successful introduction of apomixis methods into sexual crops. In addition, we discuss several genes whose overexpression can induce somatic embryogenesis as candidate genes to induce parthenogenesis, a unique reproductive method of gametophytic apomixis. We also summarize three schemes to achieve engineered apomixis, which will offer more opportunities for the realization of apomictic reproduction.
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Palumbo F, Draga S, Vannozzi A, Lucchin M, Barcaccia G. Trends in Apomixis Research: The 10 Most Cited Research Articles Published in the Pregenomic and Genomic Eras. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2022; 13:878074. [PMID: 35599856 PMCID: PMC9115752 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2022.878074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Apomixis, or asexual reproduction by seed, represents an easy shortcut for life cycle renewal based on maternal embryo production without ploidy reduction (meiosis) and ploidy restitution (syngamy). Although the first studies officially published on this topic in scientific journals date back to the early 1930s, the identification and introduction of genes involved in asexual reproduction in species of agronomic interest still represent a major challenge. Through a bibliometric analysis of the research programs implemented in apomixis over the last 40 years, the present study was aimed to discuss not only the main findings achieved but also the investigational methods and model species used. We split the critical survey of the most cited original articles into pregenomic and genomic eras to identify potential trends and depict scenarios that have emerged in the scientific community working on apomixis, as well as to determine any correlation between the exponential increase in acquired basic knowledge and the development of advanced analytical technologies. This review found a substantial stagnation in the use of the same model species, with few exceptions, for at least 40 years. In contrast, the development of new molecular techniques, genomic platforms, and repositories has directly affected the approaches used in research, which has been directed toward an increasingly focused study of the genetic and epigenetic determinants of apomixis.
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Xu Y, Jia H, Tan C, Wu X, Deng X, Xu Q. Apomixis: genetic basis and controlling genes. HORTICULTURE RESEARCH 2022; 9:uhac150. [PMID: 36072837 PMCID: PMC9437720 DOI: 10.1093/hr/uhac150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Apomixis is the phenomenon of clonal reproduction by seed. As apomixis can produce clonal progeny with exactly the same genotype as the maternal plant, it has an important application in genotype fixation and accelerating agricultural breeding strategies. The introduction of apomixis to major crops would bring many benefits to agriculture, including permanent fixation of superior genotypes and simplifying the procedures of hybrid seed production, as well as purification and rejuvenation of crops propagated vegetatively. Although apomixis naturally occurs in more than 400 plant species, it is rare among the major crops. Currently, with better understanding of apomixis, some achievements have been made in synthetic apomixis. However, due to prevailing limitations, there is still a long way to go to achieve large-scale application of apomixis to crop breeding. Here, we compare the developmental features of apomixis and sexual plant reproduction and review the recent identification of apomixis genes, transposons, epigenetic regulation, and genetic events leading to apomixis. We also summarize the possible strategies and potential genes for engineering apomixis into crop plants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuantao Xu
- Key Laboratory of Horticultural Plant Biology (Ministry of Education), Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei 430070, China
| | - Huihui Jia
- Key Laboratory of Horticultural Plant Biology (Ministry of Education), Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei 430070, China
| | - Chunming Tan
- Key Laboratory of Horticultural Plant Biology (Ministry of Education), Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei 430070, China
| | - Xiaomeng Wu
- Key Laboratory of Horticultural Plant Biology (Ministry of Education), Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei 430070, China
| | - Xiuxin Deng
- Key Laboratory of Horticultural Plant Biology (Ministry of Education), Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei 430070, China
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