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Song T, Huo Q, Li C, Wang Q, Cheng L, Qi W, Ma Z, Song R. The biosynthesis of storage reserves and auxin is coordinated by a hierarchical regulatory network in maize endosperm. THE NEW PHYTOLOGIST 2024; 243:1855-1869. [PMID: 38962989 DOI: 10.1111/nph.19949] [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: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024]
Abstract
Grain filling in maize (Zea mays) is intricately linked to cell development, involving the regulation of genes responsible for the biosynthesis of storage reserves (starch, proteins, and lipids) and phytohormones. However, the regulatory network coordinating these biological functions remains unclear. In this study, we identified 1744 high-confidence target genes co-regulated by the transcription factors (TFs) ZmNAC128 and ZmNAC130 (ZmNAC128/130) through chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing coupled with RNA-seq analysis in the zmnac128/130 loss-of-function mutants. We further constructed a hierarchical regulatory network using DNA affinity purification sequencing analysis of downstream TFs regulated by ZmNAC128/130. In addition to target genes involved in the biosynthesis of starch and zeins, we discovered novel target genes of ZmNAC128/130 involved in the biosynthesis of lipids and indole-3-acetic acid (IAA). Consistently, the number of oil bodies, as well as the contents of triacylglycerol, and IAA were significantly reduced in zmnac128/130. The hierarchical regulatory network centered by ZmNAC128/130 revealed a significant overlap between the direct target genes of ZmNAC128/130 and their downstream TFs, particularly in regulating the biosynthesis of storage reserves and IAA. Our results indicated that the biosynthesis of storage reserves and IAA is coordinated by a multi-TFs hierarchical regulatory network in maize endosperm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teng Song
- State Key Laboratory of Maize Bio-breeding, Frontiers Science Center for Molecular Design Breeding, Joint International Research Laboratory of Crop Molecular Breeding, National Maize Improvement Center, College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Qiang Huo
- State Key Laboratory of Maize Bio-breeding, Frontiers Science Center for Molecular Design Breeding, Joint International Research Laboratory of Crop Molecular Breeding, National Maize Improvement Center, College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Chaobin Li
- State Key Laboratory of Maize Bio-breeding, Frontiers Science Center for Molecular Design Breeding, Joint International Research Laboratory of Crop Molecular Breeding, National Maize Improvement Center, College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
- State Key Laboratory of Systematic and Evolutionary Botany, Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100093, China
| | - Qun Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Maize Bio-breeding, Frontiers Science Center for Molecular Design Breeding, Joint International Research Laboratory of Crop Molecular Breeding, National Maize Improvement Center, College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Lijun Cheng
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Bio-Energy Crops, Plant Science Center, School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China
| | - Weiwei Qi
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Bio-Energy Crops, Plant Science Center, School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China
| | - Zeyang Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Maize Bio-breeding, Frontiers Science Center for Molecular Design Breeding, Joint International Research Laboratory of Crop Molecular Breeding, National Maize Improvement Center, College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Rentao Song
- State Key Laboratory of Maize Bio-breeding, Frontiers Science Center for Molecular Design Breeding, Joint International Research Laboratory of Crop Molecular Breeding, National Maize Improvement Center, College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
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Ji Y, Hewavithana T, Sharpe AG, Jin L. Understanding grain development in the Poaceae family by comparing conserved and distinctive pathways through omics studies in wheat and maize. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2024; 15:1393140. [PMID: 39100085 PMCID: PMC11295249 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2024.1393140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 07/04/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024]
Abstract
The Poaceae family, commonly known as the grass family, encompasses a diverse group of crops that play an essential role in providing food, fodder, biofuels, environmental conservation, and cultural value for both human and environmental well-being. Crops in Poaceae family are deeply intertwined with human societies, economies, and ecosystems, making it one of the most significant plant families in the world. As the major reservoirs of essential nutrients, seed grain of these crops has garnered substantial attention from researchers. Understanding the molecular and genetic processes that controls seed formation, development and maturation can provide insights for improving crop yield, nutritional quality, and stress tolerance. The diversity in photosynthetic pathways between C3 and C4 plants introduces intriguing variations in their physiological and biochemical processes, potentially affecting seed development. In this review, we explore recent studies performed with omics technologies, such as genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics and metabolomics that shed light on the mechanisms underlying seed development in wheat and maize, as representatives of C3 and C4 plants respectively, providing insights into their unique adaptations and strategies for reproductive success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanyuan Ji
- Department of Computer Science, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
- Global Institute for Food Security, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Thulani Hewavithana
- Department of Computer Science, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Andrew G. Sharpe
- Global Institute for Food Security, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Lingling Jin
- Department of Computer Science, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
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3
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Peng Y, Liang Z, Cai M, Wang J, Li D, Chen Q, Du X, Gu R, Wang G, Schnable PS, Wang J, Li L. ZmPTOX1, a plastid terminal oxidase, contributes to redox homeostasis during seed development and germination. THE PLANT JOURNAL : FOR CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2024; 119:460-477. [PMID: 38678554 DOI: 10.1111/tpj.16776] [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: 11/05/2023] [Revised: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/31/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
Maize plastid terminal oxidase1 (ZmPTOX1) plays a pivotal role in seed development by upholding redox balance within seed plastids. This study focuses on characterizing the white kernel mutant 3735 (wk3735) mutant, which yields pale-yellow seeds characterized by heightened protein but reduced carotenoid levels, along with delayed germination compared to wild-type (WT) seeds. We successfully cloned and identified the target gene ZmPTOX1, responsible for encoding maize PTOX-a versatile plastoquinol oxidase and redox sensor located in plastid membranes. While PTOX's established role involves regulating redox states and participating in carotenoid metabolism in Arabidopsis leaves and tomato fruits, our investigation marks the first exploration of its function in storage organs lacking a photosynthetic system. Through our research, we validated the existence of plastid-localized ZmPTOX1, existing as a homomultimer, and established its interaction with ferredoxin-NADP+ oxidoreductase 1 (ZmFNR1), a crucial component of the electron transport chain (ETC). This interaction contributes to the maintenance of redox equilibrium within plastids. Our findings indicate a propensity for excessive accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in wk3735 seeds. Beyond its known role in carotenoids' antioxidant properties, ZmPTOX1 also impacts ROS homeostasis owing to its oxidizing function. Altogether, our results underscore the critical involvement of ZmPTOX1 in governing seed development and germination by preserving redox balance within the seed plastids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yixuan Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Maize Bio-Breeding, Key Laboratory of Crop Heterosis Utilization, Ministry of Education, Beijing Innovation Center for Crop Seed Technology (MOA), College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, P. R. China
| | - Zhi Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Maize Bio-Breeding, Key Laboratory of Crop Heterosis Utilization, Ministry of Education, Beijing Innovation Center for Crop Seed Technology (MOA), College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, P. R. China
| | - Minghao Cai
- State Key Laboratory of Maize Bio-Breeding, Key Laboratory of Crop Heterosis Utilization, Ministry of Education, Beijing Innovation Center for Crop Seed Technology (MOA), College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, P. R. China
| | - Jie Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Maize Bio-Breeding, Key Laboratory of Crop Heterosis Utilization, Ministry of Education, Beijing Innovation Center for Crop Seed Technology (MOA), College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, P. R. China
| | - Delin Li
- Institute of Crop Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100081, P. R. China
| | - Quanquan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Maize Bio-Breeding, Key Laboratory of Crop Heterosis Utilization, Ministry of Education, Beijing Innovation Center for Crop Seed Technology (MOA), College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, P. R. China
| | - Xuemei Du
- State Key Laboratory of Maize Bio-Breeding, Key Laboratory of Crop Heterosis Utilization, Ministry of Education, Beijing Innovation Center for Crop Seed Technology (MOA), College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, P. R. China
| | - Riliang Gu
- State Key Laboratory of Maize Bio-Breeding, Key Laboratory of Crop Heterosis Utilization, Ministry of Education, Beijing Innovation Center for Crop Seed Technology (MOA), College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, P. R. China
| | - Guoying Wang
- Institute of Crop Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100081, P. R. China
| | - Patrick S Schnable
- Department of Agronomy, Iowa State University, 2035 Roy J. Carver Co-Lab, Ames, 50011-3650, Iowa, USA
| | - Jianhua Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Maize Bio-Breeding, Key Laboratory of Crop Heterosis Utilization, Ministry of Education, Beijing Innovation Center for Crop Seed Technology (MOA), College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, P. R. China
| | - Li Li
- State Key Laboratory of Maize Bio-Breeding, Key Laboratory of Crop Heterosis Utilization, Ministry of Education, Beijing Innovation Center for Crop Seed Technology (MOA), College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, P. R. China
- Sanya Institute of China Agricultural University, Sanya, 572025, China
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Zhang L, Fu M, Li W, Dong Y, Zhou Q, Wang Q, Li X, Gao J, Wang Y, Wang H, Li Y, Wang J, Wu Y, Li Y. Genetic variation in ZmKW1 contributes to kernel weight and size in dent corn and popcorn. PLANT BIOTECHNOLOGY JOURNAL 2024; 22:1453-1467. [PMID: 38163293 PMCID: PMC11123423 DOI: 10.1111/pbi.14279] [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: 06/20/2023] [Revised: 11/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Kernel weight is a critical factor that essentially affects maize (Zea mays) yield. In natural inbred lines, popcorn kernels exhibit overtly smaller sizes compared to dent corn kernels, and kernel weight, which is controlled by multiple genetic loci, varies widely. Here, we characterized a major quantitative trait locus on chromosome 1, responsible for controlling kernel weight (qKW1) and size. The qKW1 locus encodes a protein containing a seven in absentia domain with E3 ubiquitin ligase activity, expressed prominently from the top to the middle region of the endosperm. The presence and function of qKW1 were confirmed through ZmKW1 gene editing, where the mutations in ZmKW1 within dent corn significantly increased kernel weight, consistent with alterations in kernel size, while overexpression of ZmKW1 had the opposite effect. ZmKW1 acts as a negative regulator of kernel weight and size by reducing both the number and size of the endosperm cells and impacting endosperm filling. Notably, the popcorn allele qKW1N and the dent corn allele qKW1D encode identical proteins; however, the differences in promoter activity arise due to the insertion of an Indel-1346 sequence in the qKW1N promoter, resulting in higher expression levels compared to qKW1D, thus contributing to the variation in kernel weight and size between popcorn and dent corn kernels. Linkage disequilibrium analysis of the 2.8 kb promoter region of ZmKW1 in a dataset comprising 111 maize association panels identified two distinct haplotypes. Our results provide insight into the mechanisms underlying kernel development and yield regulation in dent corn and popcorn, with a specific focus on the role of the ubiquitination system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Long Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science, Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Grain Crops, College of AgronomyHenan Agricultural UniversityZhengzhouChina
- College of ForestryHenan Agricultural UniversityZhengzhouChina
| | - Miaomiao Fu
- National Key Laboratory of Plant Molecular Genetics, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant SciencesShanghai Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology Chinese Academy of SciencesShanghaiChina
| | - Wenyu Li
- State Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science, Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Grain Crops, College of AgronomyHenan Agricultural UniversityZhengzhouChina
| | - Yongbin Dong
- State Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science, Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Grain Crops, College of AgronomyHenan Agricultural UniversityZhengzhouChina
| | - Qiang Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science, Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Grain Crops, College of AgronomyHenan Agricultural UniversityZhengzhouChina
- College of AgronomyXinyang Agricultural and Forestry UniversityXinyangChina
| | - Qilei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science, Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Grain Crops, College of AgronomyHenan Agricultural UniversityZhengzhouChina
| | - Xinyu Li
- State Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science, Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Grain Crops, College of AgronomyHenan Agricultural UniversityZhengzhouChina
| | - Jie Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science, Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Grain Crops, College of AgronomyHenan Agricultural UniversityZhengzhouChina
| | - Yan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science, Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Grain Crops, College of AgronomyHenan Agricultural UniversityZhengzhouChina
| | - Han Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science, Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Grain Crops, College of AgronomyHenan Agricultural UniversityZhengzhouChina
| | - Yayong Li
- State Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science, Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Grain Crops, College of AgronomyHenan Agricultural UniversityZhengzhouChina
| | - Jiechen Wang
- National Key Laboratory of Plant Molecular Genetics, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant SciencesShanghai Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology Chinese Academy of SciencesShanghaiChina
| | - Yongrui Wu
- National Key Laboratory of Plant Molecular Genetics, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant SciencesShanghai Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology Chinese Academy of SciencesShanghaiChina
| | - Yuling Li
- State Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science, Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Grain Crops, College of AgronomyHenan Agricultural UniversityZhengzhouChina
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5
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Hurst JP, Sato S, Ferris T, Yobi A, Zhou Y, Angelovici R, Clemente TE, Holding DR. Editing the 19 kDa alpha-zein gene family generates non-opaque2-based quality protein maize. PLANT BIOTECHNOLOGY JOURNAL 2024; 22:946-959. [PMID: 37988568 PMCID: PMC10955486 DOI: 10.1111/pbi.14237] [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: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 11/04/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023]
Abstract
Maize grain is deficient in lysine. While the opaque2 mutation increases grain lysine, o2 is a transcription factor that regulates a wide network of genes beyond zeins, which leads to pleiotropic and often negative effects. Additionally, the drastic reduction in 19 kDa and 22 kDa alpha-zeins causes a floury kernel, unsuitable for agricultural use. Quality protein maize (QPM) overcame the undesirable kernel texture through the introgression of modifying alleles. However, QPM still lacks a functional o2 transcription factor, which has a penalty on non-lysine amino acids due to the o2 mutation. CRISPR/cas9 gives researchers the ability to directly target genes of interest. In this paper, gene editing was used to specifically target the 19 kDa alpha zein gene family. This allows for proteome rebalancing to occur without an o2 mutation and without a total alpha-zein knockout. The results showed that editing some, but not all, of the 19 kDa zeins resulted in up to 30% more lysine. An edited line displayed an increase of 30% over the wild type. While not quite the 55% lysine increase displayed by QPM, the line had little collateral impact on other amino acid levels compared to QPM. Additionally, the edited line containing a partially reduced 19 kDa showed an advantage in kernel texture that had a complete 19 kDa knockout. These results serve as proof of concept that editing the 19 kDa alpha-zein family alone can enhance lysine while retaining vitreous endosperm and a functional O2 transcription factor.
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Affiliation(s)
- J. Preston Hurst
- Department of Agronomy and HorticultureUniversity of Nebraska‐LincolnLincolnNebraskaUSA
- Center for Plant Science InnovationLincolnNebraskaUSA
| | - Shirley Sato
- Department of Agronomy and HorticultureUniversity of Nebraska‐LincolnLincolnNebraskaUSA
| | - Tyler Ferris
- Department of Agronomy and HorticultureUniversity of Nebraska‐LincolnLincolnNebraskaUSA
- Center for Plant Science InnovationLincolnNebraskaUSA
| | - Abou Yobi
- University of Missouri‐ColumbiaColumbiaMissouriUSA
| | - You Zhou
- Department of Agronomy and HorticultureUniversity of Nebraska‐LincolnLincolnNebraskaUSA
| | | | - Tom E. Clemente
- Department of Agronomy and HorticultureUniversity of Nebraska‐LincolnLincolnNebraskaUSA
| | - David R. Holding
- Department of Agronomy and HorticultureUniversity of Nebraska‐LincolnLincolnNebraskaUSA
- Center for Plant Science InnovationLincolnNebraskaUSA
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Zang J, Zhang T, Zhang Z, Liu J, Chen H. DEFECTIVE KERNEL 56 functions in mitochondrial RNA editing and maize seed development. PLANT PHYSIOLOGY 2024; 194:1593-1610. [PMID: 37956067 DOI: 10.1093/plphys/kiad598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
Proper seed development is essential for achieving grain production, successful seed germination, and seedling establishment in maize (Zea mays). In the past few decades, pentatricopeptide repeat (PPR) proteins have been proven to play an essential role in regulating the development of maize kernels through posttranscriptional RNA modification of mitochondrial genes. However, the underlying mechanisms remain largely unknown. Here, we characterized a mutant of DEFECTIVE KERNEL 56 (DEK56) with defective kernels that exhibited arrested development of both the embryo and endosperm. Accordingly, we isolated DEK56 through a map-based cloning strategy and found that it encoded an E subgroup PPR protein located in the mitochondria. Dysfunction of DEK56 resulted in altered cytidine (C)-to-uridine (U) editing efficiency at 48 editing sites across 21 mitochondrial transcripts. Notably, the editing efficiency of the maturase-related (matR)-1124 site was substantially reduced or abolished in the dek56 mutant. Furthermore, we found that the splicing efficiency of NADH dehydrogenase subunit 4 (nad4) Introns 1 and 3 was substantially reduced in dek56 kernels, which might be a consequence of the defective MatR function. Through a protein-protein interaction test, we hypothesized that DEK56 carries out its function by recruiting the PPR-DYW protein PPR motif, coiled-coil, and DYW domain-containing protein 1 (PCW1). This interaction is facilitated by Multiple Organellar RNA Editing Factors (ZmMORFs) and Glutamine-Rich Protein 23 (ZmGRP23). Based on these findings, we developed a working model of PPR-mediated mitochondrial processing that plays an essential role in the development of maize kernels. The present study will further broaden our understanding of PPR-mediated seed development and provide a theoretical basis for maize improvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Zang
- State Key Laboratory of Plant Cell and Chromosome Engineering, Innovative Academy of Seed Design, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Tengfei Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Plant Cell and Chromosome Engineering, Innovative Academy of Seed Design, 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 100864, China
| | - Zhaogui Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Plant Cell and Chromosome Engineering, Innovative Academy of Seed Design, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Juan Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Plant Cell and Chromosome Engineering, Innovative Academy of Seed Design, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Huabang Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Plant Cell and Chromosome Engineering, Innovative Academy of Seed Design, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
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7
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Yuan Y, Huo Q, Zhang Z, Wang Q, Wang J, Chang S, Cai P, Song KM, Galbraith DW, Zhang W, Huang L, Song R, Ma Z. Decoding the gene regulatory network of endosperm differentiation in maize. Nat Commun 2024; 15:34. [PMID: 38167709 PMCID: PMC10762121 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-44369-7] [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: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
The persistent cereal endosperm constitutes the majority of the grain volume. Dissecting the gene regulatory network underlying cereal endosperm development will facilitate yield and quality improvement of cereal crops. Here, we use single-cell transcriptomics to analyze the developing maize (Zea mays) endosperm during cell differentiation. After obtaining transcriptomic data from 17,022 single cells, we identify 12 cell clusters corresponding to five endosperm cell types and revealing complex transcriptional heterogeneity. We delineate the temporal gene-expression pattern from 6 to 7 days after pollination. We profile the genomic DNA-binding sites of 161 transcription factors differentially expressed between cell clusters and constructed a gene regulatory network by combining the single-cell transcriptomic data with the direct DNA-binding profiles, identifying 181 regulons containing genes encoding transcription factors along with their high-confidence targets, Furthermore, we map the regulons to endosperm cell clusters, identify cell-cluster-specific essential regulators, and experimentally validated three predicted key regulators. This study provides a framework for understanding cereal endosperm development and function at single-cell resolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Maize Bio-breeding, Frontiers Science Center for Molecular Design Breeding, Joint International Research Laboratory of Crop Molecular Breeding, National Maize Improvement Center, College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
- Sanya Institute of China Agricultural University, Sanya, 572025, China
- Hainan Yazhou Bay Seed Laboratory, Sanya, 572025, China
| | - Qiang Huo
- State Key Laboratory of Maize Bio-breeding, Frontiers Science Center for Molecular Design Breeding, Joint International Research Laboratory of Crop Molecular Breeding, National Maize Improvement Center, College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Ziru Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Maize Bio-breeding, Frontiers Science Center for Molecular Design Breeding, Joint International Research Laboratory of Crop Molecular Breeding, National Maize Improvement Center, College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Qun Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Maize Bio-breeding, Frontiers Science Center for Molecular Design Breeding, Joint International Research Laboratory of Crop Molecular Breeding, National Maize Improvement Center, College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Juanxia Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Maize Bio-breeding, Frontiers Science Center for Molecular Design Breeding, Joint International Research Laboratory of Crop Molecular Breeding, National Maize Improvement Center, College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Shuaikang Chang
- State Key Laboratory of Maize Bio-breeding, Frontiers Science Center for Molecular Design Breeding, Joint International Research Laboratory of Crop Molecular Breeding, National Maize Improvement Center, College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Peng Cai
- State Key Laboratory of Maize Bio-breeding, Frontiers Science Center for Molecular Design Breeding, Joint International Research Laboratory of Crop Molecular Breeding, National Maize Improvement Center, College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Karen M Song
- Department of Biology, Trinity College of Arts and Sciences, Duke University, Durham, NC, 27708, USA
| | - David W Galbraith
- School of Plant Sciences and Bio5 Institute, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, 85721, USA
| | - Weixiao Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Maize Bio-breeding, Frontiers Science Center for Molecular Design Breeding, Joint International Research Laboratory of Crop Molecular Breeding, National Maize Improvement Center, College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Long Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Maize Bio-breeding, Frontiers Science Center for Molecular Design Breeding, Joint International Research Laboratory of Crop Molecular Breeding, National Maize Improvement Center, College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Rentao Song
- State Key Laboratory of Maize Bio-breeding, Frontiers Science Center for Molecular Design Breeding, Joint International Research Laboratory of Crop Molecular Breeding, National Maize Improvement Center, College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China.
- Sanya Institute of China Agricultural University, Sanya, 572025, China.
- Hainan Yazhou Bay Seed Laboratory, Sanya, 572025, China.
| | - Zeyang Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Maize Bio-breeding, Frontiers Science Center for Molecular Design Breeding, Joint International Research Laboratory of Crop Molecular Breeding, National Maize Improvement Center, College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China.
- Sanya Institute of China Agricultural University, Sanya, 572025, China.
- Hainan Yazhou Bay Seed Laboratory, Sanya, 572025, China.
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8
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Zhu J, Li S, Jiang H, Lv D, Ma S, Wang B, Lu X, Yang W, Chen R, Zhou X. Protoplast transient expression-based RNA-sequencing: A simple method to screen transcriptional regulation in plants. PLANT PHYSIOLOGY 2023; 194:408-411. [PMID: 37706557 PMCID: PMC10756751 DOI: 10.1093/plphys/kiad495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023]
Abstract
Protoplast transient expression-based RNA-sequencing identifies Opaque2 targets supported by molecular evidence and expression quantitative trait loci.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiameng Zhu
- Crop Functional Genome Research Center, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Biotechnology Research Institute, Beijing 100081, China
- National Engineering Laboratory of Crop Stress Resistance Breeding, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, China
| | - Suzhen Li
- Crop Functional Genome Research Center, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Biotechnology Research Institute, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Haiyang Jiang
- National Engineering Laboratory of Crop Stress Resistance Breeding, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, China
| | - Di Lv
- Crop Functional Genome Research Center, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Biotechnology Research Institute, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Shuai Ma
- Crop Functional Genome Research Center, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Biotechnology Research Institute, Beijing 100081, China
- Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Institute of Crop Sciences, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Baobao Wang
- Crop Functional Genome Research Center, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Biotechnology Research Institute, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Xiangyu Lu
- Crop Functional Genome Research Center, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Biotechnology Research Institute, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Wenzhu Yang
- Crop Functional Genome Research Center, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Biotechnology Research Institute, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Rumei Chen
- Crop Functional Genome Research Center, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Biotechnology Research Institute, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Xiaojin Zhou
- Crop Functional Genome Research Center, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Biotechnology Research Institute, Beijing 100081, China
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9
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Wu H, Galli M, Spears CJ, Zhan J, Liu P, Yadegari R, Dannenhoffer JM, Gallavotti A, Becraft PW. NAKED ENDOSPERM1, NAKED ENDOSPERM2, and OPAQUE2 interact to regulate gene networks in maize endosperm development. THE PLANT CELL 2023; 36:19-39. [PMID: 37795691 PMCID: PMC10734603 DOI: 10.1093/plcell/koad247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023]
Abstract
NAKED ENDOSPERM1 (NKD1), NKD2, and OPAQUE2 (O2) are transcription factors important for cell patterning and nutrient storage in maize (Zea mays) endosperm. To study the complex regulatory interrelationships among these 3 factors in coregulating gene networks, we developed a set of nkd1, nkd2, and o2 homozygous lines, including all combinations of mutant and wild-type genes. Among the 8 genotypes tested, we observed diverse phenotypes and gene interactions affecting cell patterning, starch content, and storage proteins. From ∼8 to ∼16 d after pollination, maize endosperm undergoes a transition from cellular development to nutrient accumulation for grain filling. Gene network analysis showed that NKD1, NKD2, and O2 dynamically regulate a hierarchical gene network during this period, directing cellular development early and then transitioning to constrain cellular development while promoting the biosynthesis and storage of starch, proteins, and lipids. Genetic interactions regulating this network are also dynamic. The assay for transposase-accessible chromatin using sequencing (ATAC-seq) showed that O2 influences the global regulatory landscape, decreasing NKD1 and NKD2 target site accessibility, while NKD1 and NKD2 increase O2 target site accessibility. In summary, interactions of NKD1, NKD2, and O2 dynamically affect the hierarchical gene network and regulatory landscape during the transition from cellular development to grain filling in maize endosperm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Wu
- Genetics, Development and Cell Biology Department, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
| | - Mary Galli
- Waksman Institute of Microbiology, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08901-8520, USA
| | - Carla J Spears
- Department of Biology, Central Michigan University, Mount Pleasant, MI 48859, USA
| | - Junpeng Zhan
- School of Plant Sciences, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
| | - Peng Liu
- Department of Statistics, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
| | - Ramin Yadegari
- School of Plant Sciences, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
| | | | - Andrea Gallavotti
- Waksman Institute of Microbiology, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08901-8520, USA
- Department of Plant Biology, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ
| | - Philip W Becraft
- Genetics, Development and Cell Biology Department, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
- Department of Agronomy, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
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10
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Xing M, Chen S, Zhang X, Xue H. Rice OsGA2ox9 regulates seed GA metabolism and dormancy. PLANT BIOTECHNOLOGY JOURNAL 2023; 21:2411-2413. [PMID: 37221989 PMCID: PMC10651142 DOI: 10.1111/pbi.14067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Mei‐Qing Xing
- Shanghai Collaborative Innovation Center of Agri‐Seeds, Joint Center for Single Cell Biology, School of Agriculture and BiologyShanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Su‐Hui Chen
- National Key Laboratory of Plant Molecular Genetics, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant SciencesChinese Academy of SciencesShanghaiChina
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Plant Molecular Sciences, College of Life SciencesShanghai Normal UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Xiao‐Fan Zhang
- Shanghai Collaborative Innovation Center of Agri‐Seeds, Joint Center for Single Cell Biology, School of Agriculture and BiologyShanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Hong‐Wei Xue
- Shanghai Collaborative Innovation Center of Agri‐Seeds, Joint Center for Single Cell Biology, School of Agriculture and BiologyShanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghaiChina
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11
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Liu Y, Xi W, Wang X, Li H, Liu H, Li T, Hou J, Liu X, Hao C, Zhang X. TabHLH95-TaNF-YB1 module promotes grain starch synthesis in bread wheat. J Genet Genomics 2023; 50:883-894. [PMID: 37062449 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgg.2023.04.002] [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: 12/26/2022] [Revised: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/18/2023]
Abstract
Starch is the most abundant substance in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) endosperm and provides the major carbohydrate energy for human daily life. Starch synthesis-related (SSR) genes are believed to be spatiotemporally specific, but their transcriptional regulation remains unclear in wheat. Here, we investigate the role of the basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) transcription factor TabHLH95 in starch synthesis. TabHLH95 is preferentially expressed in the developing grains in wheat and encodes a nucleus localized protein without autoactivation activity. The Tabhlh95 knockout mutants display smaller grain size and less starch content than wild type, whereas overexpression of TabHLH95 enhances starch accumulation and significantly improves thousand grain weight. Transcriptome analysis reveals that the expression of multiple SSR genes is significantly reduced in the Tabhlh95 mutants. TabHLH95 binds to the promoters of ADP-glucose pyrophosphorylase large subunit 1 (AGPL1-1D/-1B), AGPL2-5D, and isoamylase (ISA1-7D) and enhances their transcription. Intriguingly, TabHLH95 interacts with the nuclear factor Y (NF-Y) family transcription factor TaNF-YB1, thereby synergistically regulating starch synthesis. These results suggest that the TabHLH95-TaNF-YB1 complex positively modulates starch synthesis and grain weight by regulating the expression of a subset of SSR genes, thus providing a good potential approach for genetic improvement of grain productivity in wheat.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunchuan Liu
- Key Laboratory of Crop Gene Resources and Germplasm Enhancement, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs/The National Key Facility for Crop Gene Resources and Genetic Improvement/Institute of Crop Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Wei Xi
- Key Laboratory of Crop Gene Resources and Germplasm Enhancement, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs/The National Key Facility for Crop Gene Resources and Genetic Improvement/Institute of Crop Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China; State Key Laboratory of Aridland Crop Science (Gansu Agricultural University)/Gansu Provincial Key Laboratory of Crop Improvement & Germplasm Enhancement, Lanzhou, Gansu 730070, China; College of Agronomy, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730070, China
| | - Xiaolu Wang
- Key Laboratory of Crop Gene Resources and Germplasm Enhancement, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs/The National Key Facility for Crop Gene Resources and Genetic Improvement/Institute of Crop Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Huifang Li
- Key Laboratory of Crop Gene Resources and Germplasm Enhancement, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs/The National Key Facility for Crop Gene Resources and Genetic Improvement/Institute of Crop Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Hongxia Liu
- Key Laboratory of Crop Gene Resources and Germplasm Enhancement, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs/The National Key Facility for Crop Gene Resources and Genetic Improvement/Institute of Crop Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Tian Li
- Key Laboratory of Crop Gene Resources and Germplasm Enhancement, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs/The National Key Facility for Crop Gene Resources and Genetic Improvement/Institute of Crop Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Jian Hou
- Key Laboratory of Crop Gene Resources and Germplasm Enhancement, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs/The National Key Facility for Crop Gene Resources and Genetic Improvement/Institute of Crop Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Xu Liu
- Key Laboratory of Crop Gene Resources and Germplasm Enhancement, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs/The National Key Facility for Crop Gene Resources and Genetic Improvement/Institute of Crop Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China.
| | - Chenyang Hao
- Key Laboratory of Crop Gene Resources and Germplasm Enhancement, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs/The National Key Facility for Crop Gene Resources and Genetic Improvement/Institute of Crop Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China.
| | - Xueyong Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Crop Gene Resources and Germplasm Enhancement, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs/The National Key Facility for Crop Gene Resources and Genetic Improvement/Institute of Crop Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China.
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12
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Chen E, Yu H, He J, Peng D, Zhu P, Pan S, Wu X, Wang J, Ji C, Chao Z, Xu Z, Wu Y, Chao D, Wu Y, Zhang Z. The transcription factors ZmNAC128 and ZmNAC130 coordinate with Opaque2 to promote endosperm filling in maize. THE PLANT CELL 2023; 35:4066-4090. [PMID: 37542515 PMCID: PMC10615213 DOI: 10.1093/plcell/koad215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/07/2023]
Abstract
Endosperm filling in maize (Zea mays), which involves nutrient uptake and biosynthesis of storage reserves, largely determines grain yield and quality. However, much remains unclear about the synchronization of these processes. Here, we comprehensively investigated the functions of duplicate NAM, ATAF1/2, and CUC2 (NAC)-type transcription factors, namely, ZmNAC128 and ZmNAC130, in endosperm filling. The gene-edited double mutant zmnac128 zmnac130 exhibits a poorly filled kernel phenotype such that the kernels have an inner cavity. RNA sequencing and protein abundance analysis revealed that the expression of many genes involved in the biosynthesis of zein and starch is reduced in the filling endosperm of zmnac128 zmnac130. Further, DNA affinity purification and sequencing combined with chromatin-immunoprecipitation quantitative PCR and promoter transactivation assays demonstrated that ZmNAC128 and ZmNAC130 are direct regulators of 3 (16-, 27-, and 50-kD) γ-zein genes and 6 important starch metabolism genes (Brittle2 [Bt2], pullulanase-type starch debranching enzyme [Zpu1], granule-bound starch synthase 1 [GBSS1], starch synthase 1 [SS1], starch synthase IIa [SSIIa], and sucrose synthase 1 [Sus1]). ZmNAC128 and ZmNAC130 recognize an additional cis-element in the Opaque2 (O2) promoter to regulate its expression. The triple mutant zmnac128 zmnac130 o2 exhibits extremely poor endosperm filling, which results in more than 70% of kernel weight loss. ZmNAC128 and ZmNAC130 regulate the expression of the transporter genes sugars that will eventually be exported transporter 4c (ZmSWEET4c), sucrose and glucose carrier 1 (ZmSUGCAR1), and yellow stripe-like2 (ZmYSL2) and in turn facilitate nutrient uptake, while O2 plays a supporting role. In conclusion, ZmNAC128 and ZmNAC130 cooperate with O2 to facilitate endosperm filling, which involves nutrient uptake in the basal endosperm transfer layer (BETL) and the synthesis of zeins and starch in the starchy endosperm (SE).
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Affiliation(s)
- Erwang Chen
- School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230027,China
| | - Huiqin Yu
- School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230027,China
| | - Juan He
- School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230027,China
| | - Di Peng
- School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230027,China
| | - Panpan Zhu
- School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230027,China
| | - Shuxing Pan
- School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230027,China
| | - Xu Wu
- School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230027,China
| | - Jincang Wang
- School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230027,China
| | - Chen Ji
- National Key Laboratory of Plant Molecular Genetics, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Shanghai Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200032,China
| | - Zhenfei Chao
- National Key Laboratory of Plant Molecular Genetics, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Shanghai Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200032,China
| | - Zhuopin Xu
- Anhui Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology and Pollution Control Technology, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, Anhui 230031,China
| | - Yuejin Wu
- Anhui Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology and Pollution Control Technology, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, Anhui 230031,China
| | - Daiyin Chao
- National Key Laboratory of Plant Molecular Genetics, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Shanghai Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200032,China
| | - Yongrui Wu
- National Key Laboratory of Plant Molecular Genetics, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Shanghai Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200032,China
| | - Zhiyong Zhang
- School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230027,China
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13
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Barros JAS, Chatt EC, Augustine RC, McLoughlin F, Li F, Otegui MS, Vierstra RD. Autophagy during maize endosperm development dampens oxidative stress and promotes mitochondrial clearance. PLANT PHYSIOLOGY 2023; 193:1395-1415. [PMID: 37335933 PMCID: PMC10517192 DOI: 10.1093/plphys/kiad340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023]
Abstract
The selective turnover of macromolecules by autophagy provides a critical homeostatic mechanism for recycling cellular constituents and for removing superfluous and damaged organelles, membranes, and proteins. To better understand how autophagy impacts seed maturation and nutrient storage, we studied maize (Zea mays) endosperm in its early and middle developmental stages via an integrated multiomic approach using mutants impacting the core macroautophagy factor AUTOPHAGY (ATG)-12 required for autophagosome assembly. Surprisingly, the mutant endosperm in these developmental windows accumulated normal amounts of starch and Zein storage proteins. However, the tissue acquired a substantially altered metabolome, especially for compounds related to oxidative stress and sulfur metabolism, including increases in cystine, dehydroascorbate, cys-glutathione disulfide, glucarate, and galactarate, and decreases in peroxide and the antioxidant glutathione. While changes in the associated transcriptome were mild, the proteome was strongly altered in the atg12 endosperm, especially for increased levels of mitochondrial proteins without a concomitant increase in mRNA abundances. Although fewer mitochondria were seen cytologically, a heightened number appeared dysfunctional based on the accumulation of dilated cristae, consistent with attenuated mitophagy. Collectively, our results confirm that macroautophagy plays a minor role in the accumulation of starch and storage proteins during maize endosperm development but likely helps protect against oxidative stress and clears unneeded/dysfunctional mitochondria during tissue maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica A S Barros
- Department of Biology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA
| | - Elizabeth C Chatt
- Department of Biology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA
| | - Robert C Augustine
- Department of Biology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA
| | - Fionn McLoughlin
- Department of Biology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA
| | - Faqiang Li
- Department of Genetics, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Marisa S Otegui
- Department of Botany, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53706, USA
- Center for Quantitative Cell Imaging, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Richard D Vierstra
- Department of Biology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA
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14
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Cai Q, Jiao F, Wang Q, Zhang E, Song X, Pei Y, Li J, Zhao M, Guo X. Multiomics comparative analysis of the maize large grain mutant tc19 identified pathways related to kernel development. BMC Genomics 2023; 24:537. [PMID: 37697229 PMCID: PMC10496403 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-023-09567-z] [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: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The mechanism of grain development in elite maize breeding lines has not been fully elucidated. Grain length, grain width and grain weight are key components of maize grain yield. Previously, using the Chinese elite maize breeding line Chang7-2 and its large grain mutant tc19, we characterized the grain size developmental difference between Chang7-2 and tc19 and performed transcriptomic analysis. RESULTS In this paper, using Chang7-2 and tc19, we performed comparative transcriptomic, proteomic and metabolomic analyses at different grain development stages. Through proteomics analyses, we found 2884, 505 and 126 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) at 14, 21 and 28 days after pollination, respectively. Through metabolomics analysis, we identified 51, 32 and 36 differentially accumulated metabolites (DAMs) at 14, 21 and 28 days after pollination, respectively. Through multiomics comparative analysis, we showed that the phenylpropanoid pathways are influenced at transcriptomic, proteomic and metabolomic levels in all the three grain developmental stages. CONCLUSION We identified several genes in phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, which may be related to the large grain phenotype of tc19. In summary, our results provided new insights into maize grain development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Cai
- College of Agronomy, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Fuchao Jiao
- College of Agronomy, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
- The Characteristic Laboratory of Crop Germplasm Innovation and Application, Provincial Department of Education, College of Agronomy, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Qianqian Wang
- College of Agronomy, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Enying Zhang
- College of Agronomy, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Xiyun Song
- College of Agronomy, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Yuhe Pei
- College of Agronomy, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Jun Li
- College of Agronomy, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Meiai Zhao
- College of Life Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Xinmei Guo
- College of Agronomy, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China.
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15
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Chen Q, Guo Y, Zhang J, Zheng N, Wang J, Liu Y, Lu J, Zhen S, Du X, Li L, Fu J, Wang G, Gu R, Wang J, Liu Y. RNA polymerase common subunit ZmRPABC5b is transcriptionally activated by Opaque2 and essential for endosperm development in maize. Nucleic Acids Res 2023; 51:7832-7850. [PMID: 37403778 PMCID: PMC10450181 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkad571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Revised: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Maize (Zea mays) kernel size is an important factor determining grain yield; although numerous genes regulate kernel development, the roles of RNA polymerases in this process are largely unclear. Here, we characterized the defective kernel 701 (dek701) mutant that displays delayed endosperm development but normal vegetative growth and flowering transition, compared to its wild type. We cloned Dek701, which encoded ZmRPABC5b, a common subunit to RNA polymerases I, II and III. Loss-of-function mutation of Dek701 impaired the function of all three RNA polymerases and altered the transcription of genes related to RNA biosynthesis, phytohormone response and starch accumulation. Consistent with this observation, loss-of-function mutation of Dek701 affected cell proliferation and phytohormone homeostasis in maize endosperm. Dek701 was transcriptionally regulated in the endosperm by the transcription factor Opaque2 through binding to the GCN4 motif within the Dek701 promoter, which was subjected to strong artificial selection during maize domestication. Further investigation revealed that DEK701 interacts with the other common RNA polymerase subunit ZmRPABC2. The results of this study provide substantial insight into the Opaque2-ZmRPABC5b transcriptional regulatory network as a central hub for regulating endosperm development in maize.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quanquan Chen
- Beijing Innovation Center for Crop Seed Technology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs; State Key Laboratory of Maize Bio-breeding; Center for Seed Science and Technology, College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
- Institute of Crop Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Yingmei Guo
- Beijing Innovation Center for Crop Seed Technology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs; State Key Laboratory of Maize Bio-breeding; Center for Seed Science and Technology, College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Jie Zhang
- Beijing Innovation Center for Crop Seed Technology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs; State Key Laboratory of Maize Bio-breeding; Center for Seed Science and Technology, College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Nannan Zheng
- Beijing Innovation Center for Crop Seed Technology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs; State Key Laboratory of Maize Bio-breeding; Center for Seed Science and Technology, College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Jie Wang
- Beijing Innovation Center for Crop Seed Technology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs; State Key Laboratory of Maize Bio-breeding; Center for Seed Science and Technology, College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Yan Liu
- Institute of Crop Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Jiawen Lu
- Beijing Innovation Center for Crop Seed Technology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs; State Key Laboratory of Maize Bio-breeding; Center for Seed Science and Technology, College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Sihan Zhen
- Beijing Innovation Center for Crop Seed Technology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs; State Key Laboratory of Maize Bio-breeding; Center for Seed Science and Technology, College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Xuemei Du
- Beijing Innovation Center for Crop Seed Technology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs; State Key Laboratory of Maize Bio-breeding; Center for Seed Science and Technology, College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Li Li
- Beijing Innovation Center for Crop Seed Technology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs; State Key Laboratory of Maize Bio-breeding; Center for Seed Science and Technology, College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Junjie Fu
- Institute of Crop Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Guoying Wang
- Institute of Crop Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Riliang Gu
- Beijing Innovation Center for Crop Seed Technology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs; State Key Laboratory of Maize Bio-breeding; Center for Seed Science and Technology, College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Jianhua Wang
- Beijing Innovation Center for Crop Seed Technology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs; State Key Laboratory of Maize Bio-breeding; Center for Seed Science and Technology, College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Yunjun Liu
- Institute of Crop Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China
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16
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Li Y, Li D, E L, Yang J, Liu W, Xu M, Ye J. ZmDRR206 Regulates Nutrient Accumulation in Endosperm through Its Role in Cell Wall Biogenesis during Maize Kernel Development. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24108735. [PMID: 37240079 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24108735] [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: 04/21/2023] [Revised: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Dirigent proteins (DIRs) contribute to plant fitness by dynamically reorganizing the cell wall and/or by generating defense compounds during plant growth, development, and interactions with environmental stresses. ZmDRR206 is a maize DIR, it plays a role in maintaining cell wall integrity during seedling growth and defense response in maize, but its role in regulating maize kernel development is unclear. Association analysis of candidate genes indicated that the natural variations of ZmDRR206 were significantly associated with maize hundred-kernel weight (HKW). ZmDRR206 plays a dominant role in storage nutrient accumulation in endosperm during maize kernel development, ZmDRR206 overexpression resulted in small and shrunken maize kernel with significantly reduced starch content and significantly decreased HKW. Cytological characterization of the developing maize kernels revealed that ZmDRR206 overexpression induced dysfunctional basal endosperm transfer layer (BETL) cells, which were shorter with less wall ingrowth, and defense response was constitutively activated in developing maize kernel at 15 and 18 DAP by ZmDRR206 overexpression. The BETL-development-related genes and auxin signal-related genes were down-regulated, while cell wall biogenesis-related genes were up-regulated in developing BETL of the ZmDRR206-overexpressing kernel. Moreover, the developing ZmDRR206-overexpressing kernel had significantly reduced contents of the cell wall components such as cellulose and acid soluble lignin. These results suggest that ZmDRR206 may play a regulatory role in coordinating cell development, storage nutrient metabolism, and stress responses during maize kernel development through its role in cell wall biogenesis and defense response, and provides new insights into understanding the mechanisms of kernel development in maize.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanmei Li
- National Maize Improvement Center, Center for Crop Functional Genomics and Molecular Breeding, Department of Plant Genetics and Breeding, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Dongdong Li
- National Maize Improvement Center, Center for Crop Functional Genomics and Molecular Breeding, Department of Plant Genetics and Breeding, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Lizhu E
- National Maize Improvement Center, Center for Crop Functional Genomics and Molecular Breeding, Department of Plant Genetics and Breeding, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Jiayi Yang
- National Maize Improvement Center, Center for Crop Functional Genomics and Molecular Breeding, Department of Plant Genetics and Breeding, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Wenjing Liu
- National Maize Improvement Center, Center for Crop Functional Genomics and Molecular Breeding, Department of Plant Genetics and Breeding, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Mingliang Xu
- National Maize Improvement Center, Center for Crop Functional Genomics and Molecular Breeding, Department of Plant Genetics and Breeding, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Jianrong Ye
- National Maize Improvement Center, Center for Crop Functional Genomics and Molecular Breeding, Department of Plant Genetics and Breeding, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
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17
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Zhi J, Zeng J, Wang Y, Zhao H, Wang G, Guo J, Wang Y, Chen M, Yang G, He G, Chen X, Chang J, Li Y. A multi-omic resource of wheat seed tissues for nutrient deposition and improvement for human health. Sci Data 2023; 10:269. [PMID: 37164961 PMCID: PMC10172328 DOI: 10.1038/s41597-023-02133-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023] Open
Abstract
As a globally important staple crop, wheat seeds provide us with nutrients and proteins. The trend of healthy dietary has become popular recently, emphasizing the consumption of whole-grain wheat products and the dietary benefits. However, the dynamic changes in nutritional profiles of different wheat seed regions (i.e., the embryo, endosperm and outer layers) during developmental stages and the molecular regulation have not been well studied. Here, we provide this multi-omic resource of wheat seeds and describe the generation, technical assessment and preliminary analyses. This resource includes a time-series RNA-seq dataset of the embryo, endosperm and outer layers of wheat seeds and their corresponding metabolomic dataset, covering the middle and late stages of seed development. Our RNA-seq experiments profile the expression of 63,708 genes, while the metabolomic data includes the abundance of 984 metabolites. We believe that this was the first reported transcriptome and metabolome dataset of wheat seeds that helps understand the molecular regulation of the deposition of beneficial nutrients and hence improvements for nutritional and processing quality traits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingjing Zhi
- The Genetic Engineering International Cooperation Base of Chinese Ministry of Science and Technology, The Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of Chinese Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science & Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Jian Zeng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Utilization and Conservation of Food and Medicinal Resources in Northern Region, Henry Fok School of Biology and Agriculture, Shaoguan University, Shaoguan, Guangdong, 512005, China
| | - Yaqiong Wang
- The Genetic Engineering International Cooperation Base of Chinese Ministry of Science and Technology, The Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of Chinese Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science & Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Hongyan Zhao
- The Genetic Engineering International Cooperation Base of Chinese Ministry of Science and Technology, The Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of Chinese Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science & Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Guoli Wang
- The Genetic Engineering International Cooperation Base of Chinese Ministry of Science and Technology, The Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of Chinese Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science & Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Jing Guo
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Utilization and Conservation of Food and Medicinal Resources in Northern Region, Henry Fok School of Biology and Agriculture, Shaoguan University, Shaoguan, Guangdong, 512005, China
| | - Yuesheng Wang
- The Genetic Engineering International Cooperation Base of Chinese Ministry of Science and Technology, The Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of Chinese Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science & Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Mingjie Chen
- The Genetic Engineering International Cooperation Base of Chinese Ministry of Science and Technology, The Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of Chinese Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science & Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Guangxiao Yang
- The Genetic Engineering International Cooperation Base of Chinese Ministry of Science and Technology, The Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of Chinese Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science & Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Guangyuan He
- The Genetic Engineering International Cooperation Base of Chinese Ministry of Science and Technology, The Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of Chinese Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science & Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Xiaoyuan Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Utilization and Conservation of Food and Medicinal Resources in Northern Region, Henry Fok School of Biology and Agriculture, Shaoguan University, Shaoguan, Guangdong, 512005, China.
| | - Junli Chang
- The Genetic Engineering International Cooperation Base of Chinese Ministry of Science and Technology, The Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of Chinese Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science & Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China.
| | - Yin Li
- The Genetic Engineering International Cooperation Base of Chinese Ministry of Science and Technology, The Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of Chinese Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science & Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China.
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18
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Wang Y, Shi D, Zhu H, Yin H, Wang G, Yang A, Song Z, Jing Q, Shuai B, Xu N, Yang J, Chen H, Wang G. Revisiting maize Brittle endosperm-2 reveals new insights in BETL development and starchy endosperm filling. PLANT SCIENCE : AN INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL PLANT BIOLOGY 2023; 332:111727. [PMID: 37149228 DOI: 10.1016/j.plantsci.2023.111727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Rerouting the starch biosynthesis pathway in maize can generate specialty types, like sweet corn and waxy corn, with a drastically increasing global demand. Hence, a fine-tuning of starch metabolism is relevant to create diverse maize cultivars for end-use applications. Here, we characterized a new maize brittle endosperm mutant, referred to as bt1774, which exhibited decreased starch content but a dramatic increase of soluble sugars at maturity. Both endosperm and embryo development was impaired in bt1774 relative to the wild-type (WT), with a prominently arrested basal endosperm transfer layer (BETL). Map-based cloning revealed that BRITTLE ENDOSPERM2 (Bt2), which encodes a small subunit of ADP-glucose pyrophosphorylase (AGPase), is the causal gene for bt1774. A MuA2 element was found to be inserted into intron 2 of Bt2, leading to a severe decrease of its expression, in bt1774. This is in line with the irregular and loosely packed starch granules in the mutant. Transcriptome of endosperm at grain filling stage identified 1, 013 differentially expressed genes in bt1774, which were notably enriched in the BETL compartment, including ZmMRP1, Miniature1, MEG1, and BETLs. Gene expression of the canonical starch biosynthesis pathway was marginally disturbed in Bt1774. Combined with the residual 60% of starch in this nearly null mutant of Bt2, this data strongly suggests that an AGPase-independent pathway compensates for starch synthesis in the endosperm. Consistent with the BETL defects, zein accumulation was impaired in bt1774. Co-expression network analysis revealed that Bt2 probably has a role in intracellular signal transduction, besides starch synthesis. Altogether, we propose that Bt2 is likely involved in carbohydrate flux and balance, thus regulating both the BETL development and the starchy endosperm filling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongyan Wang
- National Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crops Science, CIMMYT-China (Henan) Joint Center of Wheat and Maize, Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Grain Crops, College of Agronomy, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450002, China
| | - Dongsheng Shi
- School of Environmental and Rural Science, University of New England, Armidale, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Hui Zhu
- National Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crops Science, CIMMYT-China (Henan) Joint Center of Wheat and Maize, Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Grain Crops, College of Agronomy, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450002, China
| | - Hanxue Yin
- National Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crops Science, CIMMYT-China (Henan) Joint Center of Wheat and Maize, Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Grain Crops, College of Agronomy, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450002, China
| | - Gaoyang Wang
- National Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crops Science, CIMMYT-China (Henan) Joint Center of Wheat and Maize, Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Grain Crops, College of Agronomy, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450002, China
| | - Anqi Yang
- National Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crops Science, CIMMYT-China (Henan) Joint Center of Wheat and Maize, Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Grain Crops, College of Agronomy, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450002, China
| | - Zhixuan Song
- National Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crops Science, CIMMYT-China (Henan) Joint Center of Wheat and Maize, Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Grain Crops, College of Agronomy, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450002, China
| | - Qingquan Jing
- National Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crops Science, CIMMYT-China (Henan) Joint Center of Wheat and Maize, Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Grain Crops, College of Agronomy, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450002, China
| | - Bilian Shuai
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Bio-Energy Crops, School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, China
| | - Ningkun Xu
- National Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crops Science, CIMMYT-China (Henan) Joint Center of Wheat and Maize, Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Grain Crops, College of Agronomy, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450002, China
| | - Jianping Yang
- National Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crops Science, CIMMYT-China (Henan) Joint Center of Wheat and Maize, Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Grain Crops, College of Agronomy, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450002, China
| | - Hongyu Chen
- National Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crops Science, CIMMYT-China (Henan) Joint Center of Wheat and Maize, Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Grain Crops, College of Agronomy, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450002, China.
| | - Guifeng Wang
- National Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crops Science, CIMMYT-China (Henan) Joint Center of Wheat and Maize, Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Grain Crops, College of Agronomy, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450002, China.
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19
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Tian R, Jiang J, Bo S, Zhang H, Zhang X, Hearne SJ, Tang J, Ding D, Fu Z. Multi-omic characterization of the maize GPI synthesis mutant gwt1 with defects in kernel development. BMC PLANT BIOLOGY 2023; 23:191. [PMID: 37038106 PMCID: PMC10084604 DOI: 10.1186/s12870-023-04188-w] [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: 10/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI) and GPI-anchored proteins (GAPs) are important for cell wall formation and reproductive development in Arabidopsis. However, monocot counterparts that function in kernel endosperm development have yet to be discovered. Here, we performed a multi-omic analysis to explore the function of GPI related genes on kernel development in maize. RESULTS In maize, 48 counterparts of human GPI synthesis and lipid remodeling genes were identified, in which null mutation of the glucosaminyl-phosphatidylinositol O-acyltransferase1 gene, ZmGWT1, caused a kernel mutant (named gwt1) with defects in the basal endosperm transport layer (BETL). We performed plasma membrane (PM) proteomics to characterize the potential GAPs involved in kernel development. In total, 4,981 proteins were successfully identified in 10-DAP gwt1 kernels of mutant and wild-type (WT), including 1,638 membrane-anchored proteins with different posttranslational modifications. Forty-seven of the 256 predicted GAPs were differentially accumulated between gwt1 and WT. Two predicted BETL-specific GAPs (Zm00001d018837 and Zm00001d049834), which kept similar abundance at general proteome but with significantly decreased abundance at membrane proteome in gwt1 were highlighted. CONCLUSIONS Our results show the importance of GPI and GAPs for endosperm development and provide candidate genes for further investigation of the regulatory network in which ZmGWT1 participates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Runmiao Tian
- Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crops Science, Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Grain Crops, College of Agronomy, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
| | - Jianjun Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crops Science, Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Grain Crops, College of Agronomy, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
| | - Shirong Bo
- Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crops Science, Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Grain Crops, College of Agronomy, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
| | - Hui Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crops Science, Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Grain Crops, College of Agronomy, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
| | - Xuehai Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crops Science, Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Grain Crops, College of Agronomy, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
| | - Sarah Jane Hearne
- CIMMYT, KM 45 Carretera Mexico-Veracruz, El Batan, Texcoco, Edo. De Mexico, 56237, Mexico
| | - Jihua Tang
- Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crops Science, Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Grain Crops, College of Agronomy, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
- The Shennong Laboratory, Zhengzhou, 450002, China
| | - Dong Ding
- Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crops Science, Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Grain Crops, College of Agronomy, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, China.
| | - Zhiyuan Fu
- Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crops Science, Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Grain Crops, College of Agronomy, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, China.
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20
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Li Q, Liu N, Wu C. Novel insights into maize (Zea mays) development and organogenesis for agricultural optimization. PLANTA 2023; 257:94. [PMID: 37031436 DOI: 10.1007/s00425-023-04126-y] [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: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
In maize, intrinsic hormone activities and sap fluxes facilitate organogenesis patterning and plant holistic development; these hormone movements should be a primary focus of developmental biology and agricultural optimization strategies. Maize (Zea mays) is an important crop plant with distinctive life history characteristics and structural features. Genetic studies have extended our knowledge of maize developmental processes, genetics, and molecular ecophysiology. In this review, the classical life cycle and life history strategies of maize are analyzed to identify spatiotemporal organogenesis properties and develop a definitive understanding of maize development. The actions of genes and hormones involved in maize organogenesis and sex determination, along with potential molecular mechanisms, are investigated, with findings suggesting central roles of auxin and cytokinins in regulating maize holistic development. Furthermore, investigation of morphological and structural characteristics of maize, particularly node ubiquity and the alternate attachment pattern of lateral organs, yields a novel regulatory model suggesting that maize organ initiation and subsequent development are derived from the stimulation and interaction of auxin and cytokinin fluxes. Propositions that hormone activities and sap flow pathways control organogenesis are thoroughly explored, and initiation and development processes of distinctive maize organs are discussed. Analysis of physiological factors driving hormone and sap movement implicates cues of whole-plant activity for hormone and sap fluxes to stimulate maize inflorescence initiation and organ identity determination. The physiological origins and biogenetic mechanisms underlying maize floral sex determination occurring at the tassel and ear spikelet are thoroughly investigated. The comprehensive outline of maize development and morphogenetic physiology developed in this review will enable farmers to optimize field management and will provide a reference for de novo crop domestication and germplasm improvement using genome editing biotechnologies, promoting agricultural optimization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinglin Li
- Crop Genesis and Novel Agronomy Center, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, China.
| | - Ning Liu
- Shandong ZhongnongTiantai Seed Co., Ltd, Pingyi, 273300, Shandong, China
| | - Chenglai Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Biology, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, 271018, Shandong, China.
- College of Agronomy, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, 271018, Shandong, China.
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21
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Zhu W, Miao X, Qian J, Chen S, Jin Q, Li M, Han L, Zhong W, Xie D, Shang X, Li L. A translatome-transcriptome multi-omics gene regulatory network reveals the complicated functional landscape of maize. Genome Biol 2023; 24:60. [PMID: 36991439 PMCID: PMC10053466 DOI: 10.1186/s13059-023-02890-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2022] [Accepted: 03/04/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Maize (Zea mays L.) is one of the most important crops worldwide. Although sophisticated maize gene regulatory networks (GRNs) have been constructed for functional genomics and phenotypic dissection, a multi-omics GRN connecting the translatome and transcriptome is lacking, hampering our understanding and exploration of the maize regulatome. RESULTS We collect spatio-temporal translatome and transcriptome data and systematically explore the landscape of gene transcription and translation across 33 tissues or developmental stages of maize. Using this comprehensive transcriptome and translatome atlas, we construct a multi-omics GRN integrating mRNAs and translated mRNAs, demonstrating that translatome-related GRNs outperform GRNs solely using transcriptomic data and inter-omics GRNs outperform intra-omics GRNs in most cases. With the aid of the multi-omics GRN, we reconcile some known regulatory networks. We identify a novel transcription factor, ZmGRF6, which is associated with growth. Furthermore, we characterize a function related to drought response for the classic transcription factor ZmMYB31. CONCLUSIONS Our findings provide insights into spatio-temporal changes across maize development at both the transcriptome and translatome levels. Multi-omics GRNs represent a useful resource for dissection of the regulatory mechanisms underlying phenotypic variation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanchao Zhu
- National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
- HuBei HongShan Laboratory, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Xinxin Miao
- National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
- HuBei HongShan Laboratory, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Jia Qian
- National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
- HuBei HongShan Laboratory, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Sijia Chen
- National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Qixiao Jin
- National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
- HuBei HongShan Laboratory, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Mingzhu Li
- National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
- HuBei HongShan Laboratory, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Linqian Han
- National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
- HuBei HongShan Laboratory, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Wanshun Zhong
- National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
- HuBei HongShan Laboratory, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Dan Xie
- National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
- HuBei HongShan Laboratory, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Xiaoyang Shang
- National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
- HuBei HongShan Laboratory, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Lin Li
- National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China.
- HuBei HongShan Laboratory, Wuhan, 430070, China.
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22
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Li X, Wu J, Yi F, Lai J, Chen J. High temporal-resolution transcriptome landscapes of maize embryo sac and ovule during early seed development. PLANT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2023; 111:233-248. [PMID: 36508138 DOI: 10.1007/s11103-022-01318-0] [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: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Here we provided a high temporal-resolution transcriptome atlas of maize embryo sac and ovule to reveal the gene activity dynamic during early seed development. The early maize (Zea mays) seed development is initiated from double fertilization in the embryo sac and needs to undergo a highly dynamic and complex development process to form the differentiated embryo and endosperm. Despite the importance of maize seed for food, feed, and biofuel, many regulators responsible for controlling its early development are not known yet. Here, we reported a high temporal-resolution transcriptome atlas of embryo sac and ovule based on 44 time point samples collected within the first four days of seed development. A total of 25,187 genes including 1598 transcription factors (TFs) involved in early seed development were detected. Global comparisons of the expressions of these genes revealed five distinct development stages of early seed, which are mainly related to double fertilization, asymmetric cell division of the zygote, as well as coenocyte formation, cellularization and differentiation in endosperm. We identified 3327 seed-specific genes, which more than one thousand seed-specific genes with main expressions during early seed development were newly identified here, including 859 and 186 genes predominantly expressed in the embryo sac and ovule, respectively. Combined with the published transcriptome data of seed, we uncovered the dominant auxin biosynthesis, transport and signaling related genes at different development stages and subregions of seed. These results are helpful for understanding the genetic control of early seed development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinchen Li
- State Key Laboratory of Plant Physiology and Biochemistry, China Agricultural University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- Department of Plant Genetics and Breeding, National Maize Improvement Center, China Agricultural University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Jian Wu
- CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Fei Yi
- State Key Laboratory of Plant Physiology and Biochemistry, China Agricultural University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- Engineering Research Center of Plant Growth Regulator, Ministry of Education & College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Jinsheng Lai
- State Key Laboratory of Plant Physiology and Biochemistry, China Agricultural University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- Department of Plant Genetics and Breeding, National Maize Improvement Center, China Agricultural University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- Center for Crop Functional Genomics and Molecular Breeding, China Agricultural University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Jian Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Plant Physiology and Biochemistry, China Agricultural University, Beijing, People's Republic of China.
- Department of Plant Genetics and Breeding, National Maize Improvement Center, China Agricultural University, Beijing, People's Republic of China.
- Center for Crop Functional Genomics and Molecular Breeding, China Agricultural University, Beijing, People's Republic of China.
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23
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Wang J, Wang H, Li K, Liu X, Cao X, Zhou Y, Huang C, Peng Y, Hu X. Characterization and Transcriptome Analysis of Maize Small-Kernel Mutant smk7a in Different Development Stages. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 12:354. [PMID: 36679067 PMCID: PMC9866416 DOI: 10.3390/plants12020354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The kernel serves as a storage organ for various nutrients and determines the yield and quality of maize. Understanding the mechanisms regulating kernel development is important for maize production. In this study, a small-kernel mutant smk7a of maize was characterized. Cytological observation suggested that the development of the endosperm and embryo was arrested in smk7a in the early development stage. Biochemical tests revealed that the starch, zein protein, and indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) contents were significantly lower in smk7a compared with wild-type (WT). Consistent with the defective development phenotype, transcriptome analysis of the kernels 12 and 20 days after pollination (DAP) revealed that the starch, zein, and auxin biosynthesis-related genes were dramatically downregulated in smk7a. Genetic mapping indicated that the mutant was controlled by a recessive gene located on chromosome 2. Our results suggest that disrupted nutrition accumulation and auxin synthesis cause the defective endosperm and embryo development of smk7a.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Wang
- College of Agronomy, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou 730070, China
- National Engineering Research Center of Crop Molecular Breeding, Institute of Crop Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China
- Gansu Provincial Key Laboratory of Aridland Crop Science, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou 730070, China
| | - Hongwu Wang
- College of Agronomy, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou 730070, China
- National Engineering Research Center of Crop Molecular Breeding, Institute of Crop Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China
- Gansu Provincial Key Laboratory of Aridland Crop Science, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou 730070, China
| | - Kun Li
- National Engineering Research Center of Crop Molecular Breeding, Institute of Crop Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Xiaogang Liu
- National Engineering Research Center of Crop Molecular Breeding, Institute of Crop Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Xiaoxiong Cao
- National Engineering Research Center of Crop Molecular Breeding, Institute of Crop Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Yuqiang Zhou
- National Engineering Research Center of Crop Molecular Breeding, Institute of Crop Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Changling Huang
- National Engineering Research Center of Crop Molecular Breeding, Institute of Crop Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Yunling Peng
- College of Agronomy, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou 730070, China
- Gansu Provincial Key Laboratory of Aridland Crop Science, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou 730070, China
| | - Xiaojiao Hu
- National Engineering Research Center of Crop Molecular Breeding, Institute of Crop Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China
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24
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Wang C, Li H, Long Y, Dong Z, Wang J, Liu C, Wei X, Wan X. A Systemic Investigation of Genetic Architecture and Gene Resources Controlling Kernel Size-Related Traits in Maize. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24021025. [PMID: 36674545 PMCID: PMC9865405 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24021025] [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: 12/10/2022] [Revised: 12/31/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Grain yield is the most critical and complex quantitative trait in maize. Kernel length (KL), kernel width (KW), kernel thickness (KT) and hundred-kernel weight (HKW) associated with kernel size are essential components of yield-related traits in maize. With the extensive use of quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping and genome-wide association study (GWAS) analyses, thousands of QTLs and quantitative trait nucleotides (QTNs) have been discovered for controlling these traits. However, only some of them have been cloned and successfully utilized in breeding programs. In this study, we exhaustively collected reported genes, QTLs and QTNs associated with the four traits, performed cluster identification of QTLs and QTNs, then combined QTL and QTN clusters to detect consensus hotspot regions. In total, 31 hotspots were identified for kernel size-related traits. Their candidate genes were predicted to be related to well-known pathways regulating the kernel developmental process. The identified hotspots can be further explored for fine mapping and candidate gene validation. Finally, we provided a strategy for high yield and quality maize. This study will not only facilitate causal genes cloning, but also guide the breeding practice for maize.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng Wang
- Research Center of Biology and Agriculture, Shunde Innovation School, School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
- Beijing Engineering Laboratory of Main Crop Bio-Tech Breeding, Beijing International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Bio-Tech Breeding, Zhongzhi International Institute of Agricultural Biosciences, Beijing 100192, China
| | - Huangai Li
- Research Center of Biology and Agriculture, Shunde Innovation School, School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
- Beijing Engineering Laboratory of Main Crop Bio-Tech Breeding, Beijing International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Bio-Tech Breeding, Zhongzhi International Institute of Agricultural Biosciences, Beijing 100192, China
| | - Yan Long
- Research Center of Biology and Agriculture, Shunde Innovation School, School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
- Beijing Engineering Laboratory of Main Crop Bio-Tech Breeding, Beijing International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Bio-Tech Breeding, Zhongzhi International Institute of Agricultural Biosciences, Beijing 100192, China
| | - Zhenying Dong
- Research Center of Biology and Agriculture, Shunde Innovation School, School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
- Beijing Engineering Laboratory of Main Crop Bio-Tech Breeding, Beijing International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Bio-Tech Breeding, Zhongzhi International Institute of Agricultural Biosciences, Beijing 100192, China
| | - Jianhui Wang
- Research Center of Biology and Agriculture, Shunde Innovation School, School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
- Beijing Engineering Laboratory of Main Crop Bio-Tech Breeding, Beijing International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Bio-Tech Breeding, Zhongzhi International Institute of Agricultural Biosciences, Beijing 100192, China
| | - Chang Liu
- Research Center of Biology and Agriculture, Shunde Innovation School, School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
- Beijing Engineering Laboratory of Main Crop Bio-Tech Breeding, Beijing International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Bio-Tech Breeding, Zhongzhi International Institute of Agricultural Biosciences, Beijing 100192, China
| | - Xun Wei
- Research Center of Biology and Agriculture, Shunde Innovation School, School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
- Beijing Engineering Laboratory of Main Crop Bio-Tech Breeding, Beijing International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Bio-Tech Breeding, Zhongzhi International Institute of Agricultural Biosciences, Beijing 100192, China
- Correspondence: (X.W.); (X.W.); Tel.: +86-189-1087-6260 (X.W.); +86-186-0056-1850 (X.W.)
| | - Xiangyuan Wan
- Research Center of Biology and Agriculture, Shunde Innovation School, School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
- Beijing Engineering Laboratory of Main Crop Bio-Tech Breeding, Beijing International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Bio-Tech Breeding, Zhongzhi International Institute of Agricultural Biosciences, Beijing 100192, China
- Correspondence: (X.W.); (X.W.); Tel.: +86-189-1087-6260 (X.W.); +86-186-0056-1850 (X.W.)
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Yang T, Wu X, Wang W, Wu Y. Regulation of seed storage protein synthesis in monocot and dicot plants: A comparative review. MOLECULAR PLANT 2023; 16:145-167. [PMID: 36495013 DOI: 10.1016/j.molp.2022.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Revised: 11/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Seeds are a major source of nutrients for humans and animal livestock worldwide. With improved living standards, high nutritional quality has become one of the main targets for breeding. Storage protein content in seeds, which is highly variable depending on plant species, serves as a pivotal criterion of seed nutritional quality. In the last few decades, our understanding of the molecular genetics and regulatory mechanisms of storage protein synthesis has greatly advanced. Here, we systematically and comprehensively summarize breakthroughs on the conservation and divergence of storage protein synthesis in dicot and monocot plants. With regard to storage protein accumulation, we discuss evolutionary origins, developmental processes, characteristics of main storage protein fractions, regulatory networks, and genetic modifications. In addition, we discuss potential breeding strategies to improve storage protein accumulation and provide perspectives on some key unanswered problems that need to be addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Yang
- National Key Laboratory of Plant Molecular Genetics, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Shanghai Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200032, China; State Key Laboratory of Crop Gene Exploration and Utilization in Southwest China, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, Sichuan, China
| | - Xingguo Wu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Plant Molecular Sciences, College of Life Sciences, Shanghai Normal University, Shanghai 200233, China
| | - Wenqin Wang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Plant Molecular Sciences, College of Life Sciences, Shanghai Normal University, Shanghai 200233, China
| | - Yongrui Wu
- National Key Laboratory of Plant Molecular Genetics, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Shanghai Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200032, China.
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26
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Zhang M, Zheng H, Jin L, Xing L, Zou J, Zhang L, Liu C, Chu J, Xu M, Wang L. miR169o and ZmNF-YA13 act in concert to coordinate the expression of ZmYUC1 that determines seed size and weight in maize kernels. THE NEW PHYTOLOGIST 2022; 235:2270-2284. [PMID: 35713356 DOI: 10.1111/nph.18317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play key regulatory roles in seed development and emerge as new key targets for engineering grain size and yield. The Zma-miRNA169 family is highly expressed during maize seed development, but its functional roles in seed development remain elusive. Here, we generated zma-miR169o and ZmNF-YA13 transgenic plants. Phenotypic and genetic analyses were performed on these lines. Seed development and auxins contents were investigated. Overexpression of maize miRNA zma-miR169o increases seed size and weight, whereas the opposite is true when its expression is suppressed. Further studies revealed that zma-miR169 acts by negatively regulating its target gene, a transcription factor ZmNF-YA13 that also plays a key role in determining seed size. We demonstrate that ZmNF-YA13 regulates the expression of the auxin biosynthetic gene ZmYUC1, which modulates auxin levels in the early developing seeds and determines the number of endosperm cells, thereby governing maize seed size and ultimately yield. Overall, our present study has identified zma-miR169o and ZmNF-YA13 that form a functional module regulating auxin accumulation in maize seeds and playing an important role in determining maize seed size and yield, providing a set of novel molecular tools for yield improvement in molecular breeding and genetic engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Zhang
- Biotechnology Research Institute, CAAS/Key Laboratory of Agricultural Genomics (Beijing), Ministry of Agriculture, 100081, Beijing, China
| | - Hongyan Zheng
- Biotechnology Research Institute, CAAS/Key Laboratory of Agricultural Genomics (Beijing), Ministry of Agriculture, 100081, Beijing, China
- National Nanfan Research Institute (Sanya), 572022, Sanya, Hainan, China
| | - Lian Jin
- Biotechnology Research Institute, CAAS/Key Laboratory of Agricultural Genomics (Beijing), Ministry of Agriculture, 100081, Beijing, China
| | - Lijuan Xing
- Biotechnology Research Institute, CAAS/Key Laboratory of Agricultural Genomics (Beijing), Ministry of Agriculture, 100081, Beijing, China
| | - Junjie Zou
- Biotechnology Research Institute, CAAS/Key Laboratory of Agricultural Genomics (Beijing), Ministry of Agriculture, 100081, Beijing, China
| | - Lan Zhang
- Biotechnology Research Institute, CAAS/Key Laboratory of Agricultural Genomics (Beijing), Ministry of Agriculture, 100081, Beijing, China
| | - Cuimei Liu
- National Centre for Plant Gene Research (Beijing), Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100101, Beijing, China
| | - Jinfang Chu
- National Centre for Plant Gene Research (Beijing), Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100101, Beijing, China
- College of Advanced Agricultural Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100039, Beijing, China
| | - Miaoyun Xu
- Biotechnology Research Institute, CAAS/Key Laboratory of Agricultural Genomics (Beijing), Ministry of Agriculture, 100081, Beijing, China
| | - Lei Wang
- Biotechnology Research Institute, CAAS/Key Laboratory of Agricultural Genomics (Beijing), Ministry of Agriculture, 100081, Beijing, China
- National Nanfan Research Institute (Sanya), 572022, Sanya, Hainan, China
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27
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Wang ZL, Yao F, Hui M, Wu D, Wang Y, Han X, Cao X, Li YH, Li H, Wang H. Fertility analysis of intraspecific hybrids in Vitis vinifera and screening of superior hybrid combinations. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2022; 13:940540. [PMID: 36035711 PMCID: PMC9403984 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2022.940540] [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: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The correlations were explored between fertility indicators of intraspecific V. vinifera hybrids and different cultivars were subjected to selfing or used in reciprocal crosses by testing them as female parents or male parents. Two cold-resistant and four high-quality cultivars were selected, and the offspring of fourteen crosses and six self-combinations were evaluated. The pollen viability of the six cultivars was determined by TTC staining. Compatibility and the rates of fruit-setting, seediness, germination, emergence, and seedling were measured as parameters that can affect fertility of both hybridization and self-crossing processes. Using principal component analysis, the six fertility indexes were transformed into comprehensive principal components, and the weights of the indexes were determined. Combined with the membership function method, the fertility index was comprehensively evaluated for different crosses to screen for hybrid combinations with higher fertility. The results showed a high positive correlation between the pollen viability of the cultivar subjected to selfing and the fruit-setting rate, seediness rate, and hybrid compatibility index of the cultivar used as the male parent for crossing. Additionally, there was a one-to-one positive correlation between the fruit-setting rate, germination rate, emergence rate, and seedling rate of the selfed cultivar and the fruit-setting rate, germination rate, and seedling rate of the cultivar used as the female parent for crossing. There was some variation in the comprehensive fertility index values for the parents and combinations in different years. The comprehensive fertility index was always the highest for Ecolly as the male parent. The composite fertility index values were relatively high when Dunkelfelder, Cabernet Sauvignon, or Marselan were used as the female parent. The combinations of C1 (Cabernet Sauvignon × Ecolly), C3 (Marselan × Ecolly) and C6 (Dunkelfelder × Ecolly) exhibited relatively high comprehensive fertility indices, and pedigree clustering shows that these three combinations cluster into one class of highly fertile hybrid combinations. This study provides the basis for effective intraspecific hybrid breeding of grape (V. vinifera).
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi-Lei Wang
- College of Enology, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang, China
| | - Fei Yao
- College of Enology, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang, China
| | - Miao Hui
- College of Enology, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang, China
| | - Dong Wu
- College of Enology, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang, China
| | - Ying Wang
- College of Enology, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang, China
| | - Xing Han
- College of Enology, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang, China
| | - Xiao Cao
- College of Enology, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang, China
| | - Yi-Han Li
- College of Enology, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang, China
| | - Hua Li
- College of Enology, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang, China
- Shaanxi Engineering Research Center for Viti-Viniculture, Xianyang, China
- China Wine Industry Technology Institute, Yinchuan, China
- Engineering Research Center for Viti-Viniculture, National Forestry and Grassland Administration, Xianyang, China
| | - Hua Wang
- College of Enology, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang, China
- Shaanxi Engineering Research Center for Viti-Viniculture, Xianyang, China
- China Wine Industry Technology Institute, Yinchuan, China
- Engineering Research Center for Viti-Viniculture, National Forestry and Grassland Administration, Xianyang, China
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Zheng C, Yu Y, Deng G, Li H, Li F. Network and Evolutionary Analysis Reveals Candidate Genes of Membrane Trafficking Involved in Maize Seed Development and Immune Response. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2022; 13:883961. [PMID: 35812963 PMCID: PMC9263852 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2022.883961] [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: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The plant membrane-trafficking system plays a crucial role in maintaining proper cellular functions and responding to various developmental and environmental cues. Thus far, our knowledge of the maize membrane-trafficking system is still limited. In this study, we systematically identified 479 membrane-trafficking genes from the maize genome using orthology search and studied their functions by integrating transcriptome and evolution analyses. These genes encode the components of coated vesicles, AP complexes, autophagy, ESCRTs, retromers, Rab GTPases, tethering factors, and SNAREs. The maize genes exhibited diverse but coordinated expression patterns, with 249 genes showing elevated expression in reproductive tissues. Further WGCNA analysis revealed that five COPII components and four Rab GTPases had high connectivity with protein biosynthesis during endosperm development and that eight components of autophagy, ESCRT, Rab, and SNARE were strongly co-upregulated with defense-related genes and/or with secondary metabolic processes to confer basal resistance to Fusarium graminearum. In addition, we identified 39 membrane-trafficking genes with strong selection signals during maize domestication and/or improvement. Among them, ZmSec23a and ZmVPS37A were selected for kernel oil production during improvement and pathogen resistance during domestication, respectively. In summary, these findings will provide important hints for future appreciation of the functions of membrane-trafficking genes in maize.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunyan Zheng
- College of Life Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yin Yu
- College of Life Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Guiling Deng
- College of Life Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hanjie Li
- College of Life Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Faqiang Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Protein Function and Regulation in Agricultural Organisms, College of Life Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
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29
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Rossi V, Yao Y. Editorial: Regulatory Mechanisms for Improving Cereal Seed Quality. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2022; 13:924543. [PMID: 35646031 PMCID: PMC9136401 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2022.924543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Vincenzo Rossi
- Council for Agricultural Research and Economics, Research Centre for Cereal and Industrial Crops, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Yingyin Yao
- State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology, Key Laboratory of Crop Heterosis and Utilization (MOE), Beijing Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
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30
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Zheng Y. Molecular mechanisms of maize endosperm transfer cell development. PLANT CELL REPORTS 2022; 41:1171-1180. [PMID: 34689216 DOI: 10.1007/s00299-021-02807-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Endosperm transfer cells function as the nutrient transporter, antimicrobic barrier, and signal mediator between filial and maternal tissues. Sugar supply of maternal tissues, sugar demand of filial tissues, and requirement for defence against pathogens are three elemental factors inducing differentiation of endosperm transfer cells. Epigenetic factors, especially MEG1, moderate the key genetic factor ZmMRP-1 to activate endosperm transfer cell-specific genes that control the flange wall ingrowth formation and defensin-like protein secretion in maize. Auxin and cytokinin are primary hormones involved in development of maize endosperm transfer cells. Crosstalk between glucose and hormone signaling regulates endosperm transfer cell development via modifying ZmMRP-1 expression. This review summarizes the current knowledge on maize endosperm transfer cell development, and discusses its potential molecular mechanisms. It is expected to strengthen the theoretical basis for structural and functional optimization of endosperm transfer cells, and yield improvement of kernels in maize.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yankun Zheng
- School of Life Sciences, Anqing Normal University, Anqing, 246133, Anhui, China.
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31
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Matilla AJ. Exploring Breakthroughs in Three Traits Belonging to Seed Life. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 11:plants11040490. [PMID: 35214823 PMCID: PMC8875957 DOI: 10.3390/plants11040490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Revised: 02/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Based on prior knowledge and with the support of new methodology, solid progress in the understanding of seed life has taken place over the few last years. This update reflects recent advances in three key traits of seed life (i.e., preharvest sprouting, genomic imprinting, and stored-mRNA). The first breakthrough refers to cloning of the mitogen-activated protein kinase-kinase 3 (MKK3) gene in barley and wheat. MKK3, in cooperation with ABA signaling, controls seed dormancy. This advance has been determinant in producing improved varieties that are resistant to preharvest sprouting. The second advance concerns to uniparental gene expression (i.e., imprinting). Genomic imprinting primarily occurs in the endosperm. Although great advances have taken place in the last decade, there is still a long way to go to complete the puzzle regarding the role of genomic imprinting in seed development. This trait is probably one of the most important epigenetic facets of developing endosperm. An example of imprinting regulation is polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2). The mechanism of PRC2 recruitment to target endosperm with specific genes is, at present, robustly studied. Further progress in the knowledge of recruitment of PRC2 epigenetic machinery is considered in this review. The third breakthrough referred to in this update involves stored mRNA. The role of the population of this mRNA in germination is far from known. Its relations to seed aging, processing bodies (P bodies), and RNA binding proteins (RBPs), and how the stored mRNA is targeted to monosomes, are aspects considered here. Perhaps this third trait is the one that will require greater experimental dedication in the future. In order to make progress, herein are included some questions that are needed to be answered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angel J Matilla
- Departamento de Biología Funcional (Área Fisiología Vegetal), Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad de Santiago de Compostela, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
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32
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Wang W, Xiong H, Sun K, Zhang B, Sun MX. New insights into cell-cell communications during seed development in flowering plants. JOURNAL OF INTEGRATIVE PLANT BIOLOGY 2022; 64:215-229. [PMID: 34473416 DOI: 10.1111/jipb.13170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The evolution of seeds is a major reason why flowering plants are a dominant life form on Earth. The developing seed is composed of two fertilization products, the embryo and endosperm, which are surrounded by a maternally derived seed coat. Accumulating evidence indicates that efficient communication among all three seed components is required to ensure coordinated seed development. Cell communication within plant seeds has drawn much attention in recent years. In this study, we review current knowledge of cross-talk among the endosperm, embryo, and seed coat during seed development, and highlight recent advances in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Hybrid Rice, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430072, China
| | - Hanxian Xiong
- State Key Laboratory of Hybrid Rice, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430072, China
| | - Kaiting Sun
- 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
| | - Meng-Xiang Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Hybrid Rice, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430072, China
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Wu H, Becraft PW, Dannenhoffer JM. Maize Endosperm Development: Tissues, Cells, Molecular Regulation and Grain Quality Improvement. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2022; 13:852082. [PMID: 35330868 PMCID: PMC8940253 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2022.852082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Maize endosperm plays important roles in human diet, animal feed and industrial applications. Knowing the mechanisms that regulate maize endosperm development could facilitate the improvement of grain quality. This review provides a detailed account of maize endosperm development at the cellular and histological levels. It features the stages of early development as well as developmental patterns of the various individual tissues and cell types. It then covers molecular genetics, gene expression networks, and current understanding of key regulators as they affect the development of each tissue. The article then briefly considers key changes that have occurred in endosperm development during maize domestication. Finally, it considers prospects for how knowledge of the regulation of endosperm development could be utilized to enhance maize grain quality to improve agronomic performance, nutrition and economic value.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Wu
- Genetics, Development, and Cell Biology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, United States
| | - Philip W. Becraft
- Genetics, Development, and Cell Biology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, United States
- *Correspondence: Philip W. Becraft,
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Matilla AJ. The Orthodox Dry Seeds Are Alive: A Clear Example of Desiccation Tolerance. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2021; 11:plants11010020. [PMID: 35009023 PMCID: PMC8747232 DOI: 10.3390/plants11010020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2021] [Revised: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
To survive in the dry state, orthodox seeds acquire desiccation tolerance. As maturation progresses, the seeds gradually acquire longevity, which is the total timespan during which the dry seeds remain viable. The desiccation-tolerance mechanism(s) allow seeds to remain dry without losing their ability to germinate. This adaptive trait has played a key role in the evolution of land plants. Understanding the mechanisms for seed survival after desiccation is one of the central goals still unsolved. That is, the cellular protection during dry state and cell repair during rewatering involves a not entirely known molecular network(s). Although desiccation tolerance is retained in seeds of higher plants, resurrection plants belonging to different plant lineages keep the ability to survive desiccation in vegetative tissue. Abscisic acid (ABA) is involved in desiccation tolerance through tight control of the synthesis of unstructured late embryogenesis abundant (LEA) proteins, heat shock thermostable proteins (sHSPs), and non-reducing oligosaccharides. During seed maturation, the progressive loss of water induces the formation of a so-called cellular "glass state". This glassy matrix consists of soluble sugars, which immobilize macromolecules offering protection to membranes and proteins. In this way, the secondary structure of proteins in dry viable seeds is very stable and remains preserved. ABA insensitive-3 (ABI3), highly conserved from bryophytes to Angiosperms, is essential for seed maturation and is the only transcription factor (TF) required for the acquisition of desiccation tolerance and its re-induction in germinated seeds. It is noteworthy that chlorophyll breakdown during the last step of seed maturation is controlled by ABI3. This update contains some current results directly related to the physiological, genetic, and molecular mechanisms involved in survival to desiccation in orthodox seeds. In other words, the mechanisms that facilitate that an orthodox dry seed is a living entity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angel J Matilla
- Departamento de Biología Funcional (Área Fisiología Vegetal), Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad de Santiago de Compostela, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
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35
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Li Y, Ma S, Zhao Q, Lv D, Wang B, Xiao K, Zhu J, Li S, Yang W, Liu X, Wang H, Zhou X, Chen R. ZmGRAS11, transactivated by Opaque2, positively regulates kernel size in maize. JOURNAL OF INTEGRATIVE PLANT BIOLOGY 2021; 63:2031-2037. [PMID: 34850567 DOI: 10.1111/jipb.13198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Although the genetic basis for endosperm development in maize (Zea mays) has been well studied, the mechanism for coordinating grain filling with increasing kernel size remains elusive. Here, we report that increased kernel size was selected during modern breeding and identify a novel DELLA-like transcriptional regulator, ZmGRAS11, which positively regulates kernel size and kernel weight in maize. We find that Opaque2, a core transcription factor for zein protein and starch accumulation, transactivates the expression of ZmGRAS11. Our data suggest that the Opaque2-ZmGRAS11 module mediates synergistic endosperm enlargement with grain filling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ye Li
- Crop Functional Genome Research Center, Biotechnology Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100081, China
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Products Chemical and Biological Processing Technology, Zhejiang University of Science and Technology, Hangzhou, 310023, China
| | - Shuai Ma
- Crop Functional Genome Research Center, Biotechnology Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Qianqian Zhao
- Crop Functional Genome Research Center, Biotechnology Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Di Lv
- Crop Functional Genome Research Center, Biotechnology Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Baobao Wang
- Crop Functional Genome Research Center, Biotechnology Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Ke Xiao
- Crop Functional Genome Research Center, Biotechnology Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100081, China
- Department of Applied Chemistry, College of Science, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Jiameng Zhu
- Crop Functional Genome Research Center, Biotechnology Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100081, China
- National Engineering Laboratory of Crop Stress Resistance Breeding, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, 230036, China
| | - Suzhen Li
- Crop Functional Genome Research Center, Biotechnology Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Wenzhu Yang
- Crop Functional Genome Research Center, Biotechnology Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Xiaoqing Liu
- Crop Functional Genome Research Center, Biotechnology Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Haiyang Wang
- College of Life Sciences, State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China
| | - Xiaojin Zhou
- Crop Functional Genome Research Center, Biotechnology Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Rumei Chen
- Crop Functional Genome Research Center, Biotechnology Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100081, China
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Guo J, Qu L, Hu Y, Lu W, Lu D. Proteomics reveals the effects of drought stress on the kernel development and starch formation of waxy maize. BMC PLANT BIOLOGY 2021; 21:434. [PMID: 34556041 PMCID: PMC8461923 DOI: 10.1186/s12870-021-03214-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Kernel development and starch formation are the primary determinants of maize yield and quality, which are considerably influenced by drought stress. To clarify the response of maize kernel to drought stress, we established well-watered (WW) and water-stressed (WS) conditions at 1-30 days after pollination (dap) on waxy maize (Zea mays L. sinensis Kulesh). RESULTS Kernel development, starch accumulation, and activities of starch biosynthetic enzymes were significantly reduced by drought stress. The morphology of starch granules changed, whereas the grain filling rate was accelerated. A comparative proteomics approach was applied to analyze the proteome change in kernels under two treatments at 10 dap and 25 dap. Under the WS conditions, 487 and 465 differentially accumulated proteins (DAPs) were identified at 10 dap and 25 dap, respectively. Drought induced the downregulation of proteins involved in the oxidation-reduction process and oxidoreductase, peroxidase, catalase, glutamine synthetase, abscisic acid stress ripening 1, and lipoxygenase, which might be an important reason for the effect of drought stress on kernel development. Notably, several proteins involved in waxy maize endosperm and starch biosynthesis were upregulated at early-kernel stage under WS conditions, which might have accelerated endosperm development and starch synthesis. Additionally, 17 and 11 common DAPs were sustained in the upregulated and downregulated DAP groups, respectively, at 10 dap and 25 dap. Among these 28 proteins, four maize homologs (i.e., A0A1D6H543, B4FTP0, B6SLJ0, and A0A1D6H5J5) were considered as candidate proteins that affected kernel development and drought stress response by comparing with the rice genome. CONCLUSIONS The proteomic changes caused by drought were highly correlated with kernel development and starch accumulation, which were closely related to the final yield and quality of waxy maize. Our results provided a foundation for the enhanced understanding of kernel development and starch formation in response to drought stress in waxy maize.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Guo
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Crop Genetics and Physiology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Crop Cultivation and Physiology, Agricultural College of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, P. R. China
| | - Lingling Qu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Crop Genetics and Physiology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Crop Cultivation and Physiology, Agricultural College of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, P. R. China
| | - Yifan Hu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Crop Genetics and Physiology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Crop Cultivation and Physiology, Agricultural College of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, P. R. China
| | - Weiping Lu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Crop Genetics and Physiology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Crop Cultivation and Physiology, Agricultural College of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, P. R. China
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Modern Production Technology of Grain Crops, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, P. R. China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of the Ministry of Education, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, P. R. China
| | - Dalei Lu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Crop Genetics and Physiology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Crop Cultivation and Physiology, Agricultural College of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, P. R. China.
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Modern Production Technology of Grain Crops, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, P. R. China.
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of the Ministry of Education, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, P. R. China.
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Chatterjee D, Wittmeyer K, Lee TF, Cui J, Yennawar NH, Yennawar HP, Meyers BC, Chopra S. Maize unstable factor for orange1 is essential for endosperm development and carbohydrate accumulation. PLANT PHYSIOLOGY 2021; 186:1932-1950. [PMID: 33905500 PMCID: PMC8331166 DOI: 10.1093/plphys/kiab183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Maize (Zea mays L.) Ufo1-1 is a spontaneous dominant mutation of the unstable factor for orange1 (ufo1). We recently cloned ufo1, which is a Poaceae-specific gene highly expressed during seed development in maize. Here, we have characterized Ufo1-1 and a loss-of-function Ds insertion allele (ufo1-Dsg) to decipher the role of ufo1 in maize. We found that both ufo1 mutant alleles impact sugars and hormones, and have defects in the basal endosperm transfer layer (BETL) and adjacent cell types. The Ufo1-1 BETL had reduced cell elongation and cell wall ingrowth, resulting in cuboidal shaped transfer cells. In contrast, the ufo1-Dsg BETL cells showed a reduced overall size with abnormal wall ingrowth. Expression analysis identified the impact of ufo1 on several genes essential for BETL development. The overexpression of Ufo1-1 in various tissues leads to ectopic phenotypes, including abnormal cell organization and stomata subsidiary cell defects. Interestingly, pericarp and leaf transcriptomes also showed that as compared with wild type, Ufo1-1 had ectopic expression of endosperm development-specific genes. This study shows that Ufo1-1 impacts the expression patterns of a wide range of genes involved in various developmental processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debamalya Chatterjee
- Department of Plant Science, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania 16802, USA
| | - Kameron Wittmeyer
- Department of Plant Science, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania 16802, USA
- Intercollege Graduate Degree Program in Plant Biology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania 16802, USA
| | - Tzuu-fen Lee
- The Donald Danforth Plant Science Center, St. Louis, Missouri 63132, USA
| | - Jin Cui
- Department of Plant Science, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania 16802, USA
- Intercollege Graduate Degree Program in Plant Biology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania 16802, USA
| | - Neela H Yennawar
- The Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania 16802, USA
| | - Hemant P Yennawar
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania 16802, USA
| | - Blake C Meyers
- The Donald Danforth Plant Science Center, St. Louis, Missouri 63132, USA
- Division of Plant Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri 65201, USA
| | - Surinder Chopra
- Department of Plant Science, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania 16802, USA
- Intercollege Graduate Degree Program in Plant Biology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania 16802, USA
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