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Wang P, Wu Y, Zhang J, Si J, Wang X, Jiao Z, Meng X, Zhang L, Meng F, Li Y. TaMIR397-6A and -6B Homoeologs Encode Active miR397 Contributing to the Regulation of Grain Size in Hexaploid Wheat. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:7696. [PMID: 39062941 PMCID: PMC11276883 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25147696] [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: 06/01/2024] [Revised: 07/07/2024] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Wheat is one of the most important food crops globally, and understanding the regulation of grain size is crucial for wheat breeding to achieve a higher grain yield. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play vital roles in plant growth and development. However, the miRNA-mediated mechanism underlying grain size regulation remains largely elusive in wheat. Here, we report the characterization and functional validation of a miRNA, TamiR397a, associated with grain size regulation in wheat. The function of three TaMIR397 homoeologs was determined through histochemical β-glucuronidase-dependent assay. MiRNA expression was detected using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), and the function of TamiR397a was validated through its transgenic overexpression and repression in wheat. It was found that TaMIR397-6A and TaMIR397-6B encode active TamiR397a. The expression profiling indicated that TamiR397a was differentially expressed in various tissues and gradually up-regulated during grain filling. The inhibition of TamiR397a perturbed grain development, leading to a decrease in grain size and weight. Conversely, the overexpression of TamiR397a resulted in increased grain size and weight by accelerating the grain filling process. Transcriptome analysis revealed that TamiR397a regulates a set of genes involved in hormone response, desiccation tolerance, regulation of cellular senescence, seed dormancy, and seed maturation biological processes, which are important for grain development. Among the down-regulated genes in the grains of the TamiR397a-overexpressing transgenic plants, 11 putative targets of the miRNA were identified. Taken together, our results demonstrate that TamiR397a is a positive regulator of grain size and weight, offering potential targets for breeding wheat with an increased grain yield.
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Affiliation(s)
- Putong Wang
- Henan Technology Innovation Center of Wheat, State Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science, College of Agronomy, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, China
| | - Yujie Wu
- Henan Technology Innovation Center of Wheat, State Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science, College of Agronomy, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, China
| | - Junhui Zhang
- Henan Technology Innovation Center of Wheat, State Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science, College of Agronomy, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, China
| | - Jiao Si
- Henan Technology Innovation Center of Wheat, State Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science, College of Agronomy, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, China
| | - Xiaoteng Wang
- Henan Technology Innovation Center of Wheat, State Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science, College of Agronomy, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, China
| | - Zhongfa Jiao
- Henan Technology Innovation Center of Wheat, State Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science, College of Agronomy, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, China
| | - Xiaodan Meng
- Henan Technology Innovation Center of Wheat, State Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science, College of Agronomy, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, China
| | - Li Zhang
- Henan Technology Innovation Center of Wheat, State Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science, College of Agronomy, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, China
| | - Fanrong Meng
- College of Life Sciences, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, China
| | - Yongchun Li
- Henan Technology Innovation Center of Wheat, State Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science, College of Agronomy, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, China
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Gauley A, Pasquariello M, Yoshikawa GV, Alabdullah AK, Hayta S, Smedley MA, Dixon LE, Boden SA. Photoperiod-1 regulates the wheat inflorescence transcriptome to influence spikelet architecture and flowering time. Curr Biol 2024; 34:2330-2343.e4. [PMID: 38781956 PMCID: PMC11149547 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2024.04.029] [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: 11/15/2023] [Revised: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Photoperiod insensitivity has been selected by breeders to help adapt crops to diverse environments and farming practices. In wheat, insensitive alleles of Photoperiod-1 (Ppd-1) relieve the requirement of long daylengths to flower by promoting expression of floral promoting genes early in the season; however, these alleles also limit yield by reducing the number and fertility of grain-producing florets through processes that are poorly understood. Here, we performed transcriptome analysis of the developing inflorescence using near-isogenic lines that contain either photoperiod-insensitive or null alleles of Ppd-1, during stages when spikelet number is determined and floret development initiates. We report that Ppd-1 influences the stage-specific expression of genes with roles in auxin signaling, meristem identity, and protein turnover, and analysis of differentially expressed transcripts identified bZIP and ALOG transcription factors, namely PDB1 and ALOG1, which regulate flowering time and spikelet architecture. These findings enhance our understanding of genes that regulate inflorescence development and introduce new targets for improving yield potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Gauley
- Department of Crop Genetics, John Innes Centre, Norwich Research Park, Colney Lane, Norwich NR4 7UH, UK; Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leeds, Woodhouse Lane, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK
| | - Marianna Pasquariello
- Department of Crop Genetics, John Innes Centre, Norwich Research Park, Colney Lane, Norwich NR4 7UH, UK
| | - Guilherme V Yoshikawa
- School of Agriculture, Food and Wine, Waite Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Hartley Grove, Glen Osmond, SA 5064, Australia
| | - Abdul Kader Alabdullah
- Department of Crop Genetics, John Innes Centre, Norwich Research Park, Colney Lane, Norwich NR4 7UH, UK
| | - Sadiye Hayta
- Department of Crop Genetics, John Innes Centre, Norwich Research Park, Colney Lane, Norwich NR4 7UH, UK
| | - Mark A Smedley
- Department of Crop Genetics, John Innes Centre, Norwich Research Park, Colney Lane, Norwich NR4 7UH, UK
| | - Laura E Dixon
- Department of Crop Genetics, John Innes Centre, Norwich Research Park, Colney Lane, Norwich NR4 7UH, UK; Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leeds, Woodhouse Lane, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK
| | - Scott A Boden
- Department of Crop Genetics, John Innes Centre, Norwich Research Park, Colney Lane, Norwich NR4 7UH, UK; School of Agriculture, Food and Wine, Waite Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Hartley Grove, Glen Osmond, SA 5064, Australia.
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López-Fernández M, García-Abadillo J, Uauy C, Ruiz M, Giraldo P, Pascual L. Genome wide association in Spanish bread wheat landraces identifies six key genomic regions that constitute potential targets for improving grain yield related traits. TAG. THEORETICAL AND APPLIED GENETICS. THEORETISCHE UND ANGEWANDTE GENETIK 2023; 136:244. [PMID: 37957405 PMCID: PMC10643358 DOI: 10.1007/s00122-023-04492-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
KEY MESSAGE Association mapping conducted in 189 Spanish bread wheat landraces revealed six key genomic regions that constitute stable QTLs for yield and include 15 candidate genes. Genetically diverse landraces provide an ideal population to conduct association analysis. In this study, association mapping was conducted in a collection of 189 Spanish bread wheat landraces whose genomic diversity had been previously assessed. These genomic data were combined with characterization for yield-related traits, including grain size and shape, and phenological traits screened across five seasons. The association analysis revealed a total of 881 significant marker trait associations, involving 434 markers across the genome, that could be grouped in 366 QTLs based on linkage disequilibrium. After accounting for days to heading, we defined 33 high density QTL genomic regions associated to at least four traits. Considering the importance of detecting stable QTLs, 6 regions associated to several grain traits and thousand kernel weight in at least three environments were selected as the most promising ones to harbour targets for breeding. To dissect the genetic cause of the observed associations, we studied the function and in silico expression of the 413 genes located inside these six regions. This identified 15 candidate genes that provide a starting point for future analysis aimed at the identification and validation of wheat yield related genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matilde López-Fernández
- Department of Biotechnology-Plant Biology, School of Agricultural, Food and Biosystems Engineering (ETSIAAB), Universidad Politécnica de Madrid (UPM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Julián García-Abadillo
- Department of Biotechnology and Plant Biology, Centre for Biotechnology and Plant Genomics (CBGP), Universidad Politécnica de Madrid (UPM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Cristobal Uauy
- John Innes Centre, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, NR4 7UH, UK
| | - Magdalena Ruiz
- Instituto Nacional de Investigacion y Tecnologia Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA), CSIC, Autovía A2, Km. 36.2. Finca La Canaleja, 28805, Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain
| | - Patricia Giraldo
- Department of Biotechnology-Plant Biology, School of Agricultural, Food and Biosystems Engineering (ETSIAAB), Universidad Politécnica de Madrid (UPM), Madrid, Spain.
| | - Laura Pascual
- Department of Biotechnology-Plant Biology, School of Agricultural, Food and Biosystems Engineering (ETSIAAB), Universidad Politécnica de Madrid (UPM), Madrid, Spain
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Alomari DZ, Schierenbeck M, Alqudah AM, Alqahtani MD, Wagner S, Rolletschek H, Borisjuk L, Röder MS. Wheat Grains as a Sustainable Source of Protein for Health. Nutrients 2023; 15:4398. [PMID: 37892473 PMCID: PMC10609835 DOI: 10.3390/nu15204398] [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: 09/10/2023] [Revised: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Protein deficiency is recognized among the major global health issues with an underestimation of its importance. Genetic biofortification is a cost-effective and sustainable strategy to overcome global protein malnutrition. This study was designed to focus on protein-dense grains of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) and identify the genes governing grain protein content (GPC) that improve end-use quality and in turn human health. Genome-wide association was applied using the 90k iSELECT Infinium and 35k Affymetrix arrays with GPC quantified by using a proteomic-based technique in 369 wheat genotypes over three field-year trials. The results showed significant natural variation among bread wheat genotypes that led to detecting 54 significant quantitative trait nucleotides (QTNs) surpassing the false discovery rate (FDR) threshold. These QTNs showed contrasting effects on GPC ranging from -0.50 to +0.54% that can be used for protein content improvement. Further bioinformatics analyses reported that these QTNs are genomically linked with 35 candidate genes showing high expression during grain development. The putative candidate genes have functions in the binding, remobilization, or transport of protein. For instance, the promising QTN AX-94727470 on chromosome 6B increases GPC by +0.47% and is physically located inside the gene TraesCS6B02G384500 annotated as Trehalose 6-phosphate phosphatase (T6P), which can be employed to improve grain protein quality. Our findings are valuable for the enhancement of protein content and end-use quality in one of the major daily food resources that ultimately improve human nutrition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dalia Z. Alomari
- Department of Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, The Hashemite University, P.O. Box 330127, Zarqa 13133, Jordan
| | - Matías Schierenbeck
- Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK), Corrensstraße 3, OT Gatersleben, D-06466 Seeland, Germany; (S.W.); (H.R.); (L.B.); (M.S.R.)
- CONICET CCT La Plata, La Plata 1900, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Ahmad M. Alqudah
- Biological Science Program, Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, College of Art and Science, Qatar University, Doha P.O. Box 2713, Qatar;
| | - Mashael Daghash Alqahtani
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, P.O. Box 84428, Riyadh 11671, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Steffen Wagner
- Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK), Corrensstraße 3, OT Gatersleben, D-06466 Seeland, Germany; (S.W.); (H.R.); (L.B.); (M.S.R.)
| | - Hardy Rolletschek
- Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK), Corrensstraße 3, OT Gatersleben, D-06466 Seeland, Germany; (S.W.); (H.R.); (L.B.); (M.S.R.)
| | - Ljudmilla Borisjuk
- Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK), Corrensstraße 3, OT Gatersleben, D-06466 Seeland, Germany; (S.W.); (H.R.); (L.B.); (M.S.R.)
| | - Marion S. Röder
- Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK), Corrensstraße 3, OT Gatersleben, D-06466 Seeland, Germany; (S.W.); (H.R.); (L.B.); (M.S.R.)
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Abstract
Wheat grain development is an important biological process to determine grain yield and quality, which is controlled by the interplay of genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors. Wheat grain development has been extensively characterized at the phenotypic and genetic levels. The advent of innovative molecular technologies allows us to characterize genes, proteins, and regulatory factors involved in wheat grain development, which have enhanced our understanding of the wheat seed development process. However, wheat is an allohexaploid with a large genome size, the molecular mechanisms underlying the wheat grain development have not been well understood as those in diploids. Understanding grain development, and how it is regulated, is of fundamental importance for improving grain yield and quality through conventional breeding or genetic engineering. Herein, we review the current discoveries on the molecular mechanisms underlying wheat grain development. Notably, only a handful of genes that control wheat grain development have, thus far, been well characterized, their interplay underlying the grain development remains elusive. The synergistic network-integrated genomics and epigenetics underlying wheat grain development and how the subgenome divergence dynamically and precisely regulates wheat grain development are unknown.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiling Wang
- College of Life Science, Shanxi Normal University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Genlou Sun
- Biology Department, Saint Mary's University, Halifax, Canada
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Slafer GA, Foulkes MJ, Reynolds MP, Murchie EH, Carmo-Silva E, Flavell R, Gwyn J, Sawkins M, Griffiths S. A 'wiring diagram' for sink strength traits impacting wheat yield potential. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL BOTANY 2023; 74:40-71. [PMID: 36334052 PMCID: PMC9786893 DOI: 10.1093/jxb/erac410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Identifying traits for improving sink strength is a bottleneck to increasing wheat yield. The interacting processes determining sink strength and yield potential are reviewed and visualized in a set of 'wiring diagrams', covering critical phases of development (and summarizing known underlying genetics). Using this framework, we reviewed and assembled the main traits determining sink strength and identified research gaps and potential hypotheses to be tested for achieving gains in sink strength. In pre-anthesis, grain number could be increased through: (i) enhanced spike growth associated with optimized floret development and/or a reduction in specific stem-internode lengths and (ii) improved fruiting efficiency through an accelerated rate of floret development, improved partitioning between spikes, or optimized spike cytokinin levels. In post-anthesis, grain, sink strength could be augmented through manipulation of grain size potential via ovary size and/or endosperm cell division and expansion. Prospects for improving spike vascular architecture to support all rapidly growing florets, enabling the improved flow of assimilate, are also discussed. Finally, we considered the prospects for enhancing grain weight realization in relation to genetic variation in stay-green traits as well as stem carbohydrate remobilization. The wiring diagrams provide a potential workspace for breeders and crop scientists to achieve yield gains in wheat and other field crops.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Matthew P Reynolds
- International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT), Km. 45, Carretera Mexico, El Batan, Texcoco, Mexico
| | - Erik H Murchie
- Plant and Crop Sciences, School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Leicestershire LE12 5RD, UK
| | | | - Richard Flavell
- International Wheat Yield Partnership, 1500 Research Parkway, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Jeff Gwyn
- International Wheat Yield Partnership, 1500 Research Parkway, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Mark Sawkins
- International Wheat Yield Partnership, 1500 Research Parkway, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Simon Griffiths
- John Innes Centre, Norwich Research Park, Colney Ln, Norwich NR4 7UH, UK
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7
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Ma J, Liu Y, Zhang P, Chen T, Tian T, Wang P, Che Z, Shahinnia F, Yang D. Identification of quantitative trait loci (QTL) and meta-QTL analysis for kernel size-related traits in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). BMC PLANT BIOLOGY 2022; 22:607. [PMID: 36550393 PMCID: PMC9784057 DOI: 10.1186/s12870-022-03989-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Kernel size-related traits, including kernel length (KL), kernel width (KW), kernel diameter ratio (KDR) and kernel thickness (KT), are critical determinants for wheat kernel weight and yield and highly governed by a type of quantitative genetic basis. Genome-wide identification of major and stable quantitative trait loci (QTLs) and functional genes are urgently required for genetic improvement in wheat kernel yield. A hexaploid wheat population consisting of 120 recombinant inbred lines was developed to identify QTLs for kernel size-related traits under different water environments. The meta-analysis and transcriptome evaluation were further integrated to identify major genomic regions and putative candidate genes. RESULTS The analysis of variance (ANOVA) revealed more significant genotypic effects for kernel size-related traits, indicating the moderate to high heritability of 0.61-0.89. Thirty-two QTLs for kernel size-related traits were identified, explaining 3.06%-14.2% of the phenotypic variation. Eleven stable QTLs were detected in more than three water environments. The 1103 original QTLs from the 34 previous studies and the present study were employed for the MQTL analysis and refined into 58 MQTLs. The average confidence interval of the MQTLs was 3.26-fold less than that of the original QTLs. The 1864 putative candidate genes were mined within the regions of 12 core MQTLs, where 70 candidate genes were highly expressed in spikes and kernels by comprehensive analysis of wheat transcriptome data. They were involved in various metabolic pathways, such as carbon fixation in photosynthetic organisms, carbon metabolism, mRNA surveillance pathway, RNA transport and biosynthesis of secondary metabolites. CONCLUSIONS Major genomic regions and putative candidate genes for kernel size-related traits in wheat have been revealed by an integrative strategy with QTL linkage mapping, meta-analysis and transcriptomic assessment. The findings provide a novel insight into understanding the genetic determinants of kernel size-related traits and will be useful for the marker-assisted selection of high yield in wheat breeding.
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Grants
- GHSJ 2020-Z4 Research Program Sponsored by State Key Laboratory of Aridland Crop Science, China
- GHSJ 2020-Z4 Research Program Sponsored by State Key Laboratory of Aridland Crop Science, China
- GHSJ 2020-Z4 Research Program Sponsored by State Key Laboratory of Aridland Crop Science, China
- GHSJ 2020-Z4 Research Program Sponsored by State Key Laboratory of Aridland Crop Science, China
- GHSJ 2020-Z4 Research Program Sponsored by State Key Laboratory of Aridland Crop Science, China
- GHSJ 2020-Z4 Research Program Sponsored by State Key Laboratory of Aridland Crop Science, China
- GHSJ 2020-Z4 Research Program Sponsored by State Key Laboratory of Aridland Crop Science, China
- GHSJ 2020-Z4 Research Program Sponsored by State Key Laboratory of Aridland Crop Science, China
- 21YF5NA089 Key Research and Development Program of Gansu Province, China
- 21YF5NA089 Key Research and Development Program of Gansu Province, China
- 21YF5NA089 Key Research and Development Program of Gansu Province, China
- 21YF5NA089 Key Research and Development Program of Gansu Province, China
- 21YF5NA089 Key Research and Development Program of Gansu Province, China
- 21YF5NA089 Key Research and Development Program of Gansu Province, China
- 21YF5NA089 Key Research and Development Program of Gansu Province, China
- 21YF5NA089 Key Research and Development Program of Gansu Province, China
- 2022CYZC-44 Industrial Support Plan of Colleges and Universities in Gansu Province
- 2022CYZC-44 Industrial Support Plan of Colleges and Universities in Gansu Province
- 2022CYZC-44 Industrial Support Plan of Colleges and Universities in Gansu Province
- 2022CYZC-44 Industrial Support Plan of Colleges and Universities in Gansu Province
- 2022CYZC-44 Industrial Support Plan of Colleges and Universities in Gansu Province
- 2022CYZC-44 Industrial Support Plan of Colleges and Universities in Gansu Province
- 2022CYZC-44 Industrial Support Plan of Colleges and Universities in Gansu Province
- 2022CYZC-44 Industrial Support Plan of Colleges and Universities in Gansu Province
- 31760385 National Natural Science Foundation of China
- 31760385 National Natural Science Foundation of China
- 31760385 National Natural Science Foundation of China
- 31760385 National Natural Science Foundation of China
- 31760385 National Natural Science Foundation of China
- 31760385 National Natural Science Foundation of China
- 31760385 National Natural Science Foundation of China
- 31760385 National Natural Science Foundation of China
- 22ZD6NA010 Key Sci & Tech Special Project of Gansu Province
- 22ZD6NA010 Key Sci & Tech Special Project of Gansu Province
- 22ZD6NA010 Key Sci & Tech Special Project of Gansu Province
- 22ZD6NA010 Key Sci & Tech Special Project of Gansu Province
- 22ZD6NA010 Key Sci & Tech Special Project of Gansu Province
- 22ZD6NA010 Key Sci & Tech Special Project of Gansu Province
- 22ZD6NA010 Key Sci & Tech Special Project of Gansu Province
- 22ZD6NA010 Key Sci & Tech Special Project of Gansu Province
- Key Sci & Tech Special Project of Gansu Province
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingfu Ma
- State Key Lab of Aridland Crop Science, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
- College of Agronomy, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Yuan Liu
- College of Life Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Peipei Zhang
- State Key Lab of Aridland Crop Science, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Tao Chen
- College of Life Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Tian Tian
- College of Life Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Peng Wang
- College of Life Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Zhuo Che
- Plant Seed Master Station of Gansu Province, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Fahimeh Shahinnia
- Institute for Crop Science and Plant Breeding, Bavarian State Research Centre for Agriculture, Freising, Germany
| | - Delong Yang
- State Key Lab of Aridland Crop Science, Lanzhou, Gansu, China.
- College of Life Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China.
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8
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Genome-Wide Association Study Revealed SNP Alleles Associated with Seed Size Traits in African Yam Bean ( Sphenostylis stenocarpa (Hochst ex. A. Rich.) Harms). Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:genes13122350. [PMID: 36553617 PMCID: PMC9777823 DOI: 10.3390/genes13122350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Revised: 11/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Seed size is an important yield and quality-determining trait in higher plants and is also crucial to their evolutionary fitness. In African yam bean (AYB), seed size varies widely among different accessions. However, the genetic basis of such variation has not been adequately documented. A genome-wide marker-trait association study was conducted to identify genomic regions associated with four seed size traits (seed length, seed width, seed thickness, and 100-seed weight) in a panel of 195 AYB accessions. A total of 5416 SNP markers were generated from the diversity array technology sequence (DArTseq) genotype-by-sequencing (GBS)- approach, in which 2491 SNPs were retained after SNP quality control and used for marker-trait association analysis. Significant phenotypic variation was observed for the traits. Broad-sense heritability ranged from 50.0% (seed width) to 66.4% (seed length). The relationships among the traits were positive and significant. Genome-wide association study (GWAS) using the general linear model (GLM) and the mixed linear model (MLM) approaches identified 12 SNP markers significantly associated with seed size traits across the six test environments. The 12 makers explained 6.5-10.8% of the phenotypic variation. Two markers (29420334|F|0-52:C>G-52:C>G and 29420736|F|0-57:G>T-57:G>T) with pleiotropic effects associated with seed width and seed thickness were found. A candidate gene search identified five significant markers (100026424|F|0-37:C>T-37:C>T, 100041049|F|0-42:G>C-42:G>C, 100034480|F|0-31:C>A-31:C>A, 29420365|F|0-55:C>G-55:C>G, and 29420736|F|0-57:G>T-57:G>T) located close to 43 putative genes whose encoding protein products are known to regulate seed size traits. This study revealed significant makers not previously reported for seed size in AYB and could provide useful information for genomic-assisted breeding in AYB.
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9
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Dixon LE, Pasquariello M, Badgami R, Levin KA, Poschet G, Ng PQ, Orford S, Chayut N, Adamski NM, Brinton J, Simmonds J, Steuernagel B, Searle IR, Uauy C, Boden SA. MicroRNA-resistant alleles of HOMEOBOX DOMAIN-2 modify inflorescence branching and increase grain protein content of wheat. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2022; 8:eabn5907. [PMID: 35544571 PMCID: PMC9094671 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abn5907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Plant and inflorescence architecture determine the yield potential of crops. Breeders have harnessed natural diversity for inflorescence architecture to improve yields, and induced genetic variation could provide further gains. Wheat is a vital source of protein and calories; however, little is known about the genes that regulate the development of its inflorescence. Here, we report the identification of semidominant alleles for a class III homeodomain-leucine zipper transcription factor, HOMEOBOX DOMAIN-2 (HB-2), on wheat A and D subgenomes, which generate more flower-bearing spikelets and enhance grain protein content. These alleles increase HB-2 expression by disrupting a microRNA 165/166 complementary site with conserved roles in plants; higher HB-2 expression is associated with modified leaf and vascular development and increased amino acid supply to the inflorescence during grain development. These findings enhance our understanding of genes that control wheat inflorescence development and introduce an approach to improve the nutritional quality of grain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura E. Dixon
- Department of Crop Genetics, John Innes Centre, Norwich Research Park, Norwich NR4 7UH, UK
- Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK
| | - Marianna Pasquariello
- Department of Crop Genetics, John Innes Centre, Norwich Research Park, Norwich NR4 7UH, UK
| | - Roshani Badgami
- Department of Crop Genetics, John Innes Centre, Norwich Research Park, Norwich NR4 7UH, UK
| | - Kara A. Levin
- School of Agriculture, Food and Wine, Waite Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Glen Osmond, SA 5064, Australia
| | - Gernot Poschet
- Centre of Organismal Studies (COS), University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg 69120, Germany
| | - Pei Qin Ng
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
| | - Simon Orford
- Germplasm Resources Unit, John Innes Centre, Norwich Research Park, Norwich NR4 7UH, UK
| | - Noam Chayut
- Germplasm Resources Unit, John Innes Centre, Norwich Research Park, Norwich NR4 7UH, UK
| | - Nikolai M. Adamski
- Department of Crop Genetics, John Innes Centre, Norwich Research Park, Norwich NR4 7UH, UK
| | - Jemima Brinton
- Department of Crop Genetics, John Innes Centre, Norwich Research Park, Norwich NR4 7UH, UK
| | - James Simmonds
- Department of Crop Genetics, John Innes Centre, Norwich Research Park, Norwich NR4 7UH, UK
| | - Burkhard Steuernagel
- Department of Crop Genetics, John Innes Centre, Norwich Research Park, Norwich NR4 7UH, UK
| | - Iain R. Searle
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
| | - Cristobal Uauy
- Department of Crop Genetics, John Innes Centre, Norwich Research Park, Norwich NR4 7UH, UK
| | - Scott A. Boden
- Department of Crop Genetics, John Innes Centre, Norwich Research Park, Norwich NR4 7UH, UK
- School of Agriculture, Food and Wine, Waite Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Glen Osmond, SA 5064, Australia
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10
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Grain Size Associated Genes and the Molecular Regulatory Mechanism in Rice. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23063169. [PMID: 35328589 PMCID: PMC8953112 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23063169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Revised: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Grain size is a quantitative trait that is controlled by multiple genes. It is not only a yield trait, but also an important appearance quality of rice. In addition, grain size is easy to be selected in evolution, which is also a significant trait for studying rice evolution. In recent years, many quantitative trait loci (QTL)/genes for rice grain size were isolated by map-based cloning or genome-wide association studies, which revealed the genetic and molecular mechanism of grain size regulation in part. Here, we summarized the QTL/genes cloned for grain size and the regulation mechanism with a view to provide the theoretical basis for improving rice yield and breeding superior varieties.
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11
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Zhao D, Yang L, Liu D, Zeng J, Cao S, Xia X, Yan J, Song X, He Z, Zhang Y. Fine mapping and validation of a major QTL for grain weight on chromosome 5B in bread wheat. TAG. THEORETICAL AND APPLIED GENETICS. THEORETISCHE UND ANGEWANDTE GENETIK 2021; 134:3731-3741. [PMID: 34324015 DOI: 10.1007/s00122-021-03925-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
A major QTL QTgw.caas-5B for thousand grain weight in wheat was fine mapped on chromosome 5B, and TraesCS5B02G044800 was predicted to be the candidate gene. Thousand grain weight (TGW), determined by grain length and width, and is an important yield component in wheat; understanding of the underlying genes and molecular mechanisms remains limited. A stable QTL QTgw.caas-5B for TGW was identified previously in a RIL population developed from a cross between Zhongmai 871 (ZM871) and a sister line Zhongmai 895 (ZM895), and the aim of this study was to perform fine mapping and validate the genetic effect of the QTL. It was delimited to an interval of approximately 2.0 Mb flanked by markers Kasp_5B29 and Kasp_5B31 (49.6-51.6 Mb) using 12 heterozygous recombinant plants obtained by selfing a residual BC1F6 line selected from the ZM871/ZM895//ZM871 population. A candidate gene was predicted following sequencing and differential expression analyses. Marker Kasp_5B_Tgw based on a SNP in TraesCS5B02G044800, the QTgw.caas-5B candidate, was developed and validated in a diversity panel of 166 cultivars. The precise mapping of QTgw.caas-5B laid a foundation for cloning of a predicted causal gene and provides a molecular marker for improving grain yield in wheat.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dehui Zhao
- Institute of Crop Sciences, National Wheat Improvement Centre, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), 12 Zhongguancun South Street, Beijing, 100081, China
- College of Agronomy, Northwest A & F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, China
| | - Li Yang
- Institute of Crop Sciences, National Wheat Improvement Centre, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), 12 Zhongguancun South Street, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Dan Liu
- Institute of Crop Sciences, National Wheat Improvement Centre, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), 12 Zhongguancun South Street, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Jianqi Zeng
- Institute of Crop Sciences, National Wheat Improvement Centre, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), 12 Zhongguancun South Street, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Shuanghe Cao
- Institute of Crop Sciences, National Wheat Improvement Centre, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), 12 Zhongguancun South Street, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Xianchun Xia
- Institute of Crop Sciences, National Wheat Improvement Centre, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), 12 Zhongguancun South Street, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Jun Yan
- Institute of Cotton Research, CAAS, 38 Huanghe Dadao, Anyang, 455000, Henan, China
| | - Xiyue Song
- College of Agronomy, Northwest A & F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, China
| | - Zhonghu He
- Institute of Crop Sciences, National Wheat Improvement Centre, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), 12 Zhongguancun South Street, Beijing, 100081, China.
- CIMMYT-China Office, C/O CAAS, Beijing, 100081, China.
| | - Yong Zhang
- Institute of Crop Sciences, National Wheat Improvement Centre, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), 12 Zhongguancun South Street, Beijing, 100081, China.
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12
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Qi K, Han H, Zhang J, Zhou S, Li X, Yang X, Liu W, Lu Y, Li L. Development and characterization of novel Triticum aestivum- Agropyron cristatum 6P Robertsonian translocation lines. MOLECULAR BREEDING : NEW STRATEGIES IN PLANT IMPROVEMENT 2021; 41:59. [PMID: 37309319 PMCID: PMC10236080 DOI: 10.1007/s11032-021-01251-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 09/03/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Agropyron cristatum (L.) Gaertn. (2n = 4x = 28, PPPP), one of the most important wild relatives of wheat, harbors many desirable genes for wheat genetic improvement. Development of wheat-A. cristatum translocation lines with superior agronomic traits facilitates wheat genetic improvement. In this study, 5106-DS was identified to be a wheat-A. cristatum 6P (6D) disomic substitution line using cytogenetic identification and molecular markers analysis, which displayed higher thousand-grain weight than its wheat parent Triticum aestivum cv. Fukuhokomugi (2n = 6x = 42, AABBDD). Analysis of its backcross populations indicated that there might be genes conferring increased grain weight and width on the chromosome 6P of 5106-DS. In the backcross population, we found three plants as Robertsonian translocation lines, created by chromosome centric breakage-fusion. Among them, there are one T6DS·6PL and two T6PS·6DL Robertsonian translocation lines. Additionally, the centromeres of these three translocation lines were determined to be fused centromeres of 6D and 6P using the probes pAcCR1 and pCCS1. The development of Robertsonian translocation lines would promote the utilization of A. cristatum chromosome 6P in wheat improvement. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s11032-021-01251-y.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Qi
- National Key Facility for Crop Gene Resources and Genetic Improvement, Institute of Crop Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100081 China
| | - Haiming Han
- National Key Facility for Crop Gene Resources and Genetic Improvement, Institute of Crop Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100081 China
| | - Jinpeng Zhang
- National Key Facility for Crop Gene Resources and Genetic Improvement, Institute of Crop Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100081 China
| | - Shenghui Zhou
- National Key Facility for Crop Gene Resources and Genetic Improvement, Institute of Crop Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100081 China
| | - Xiuquan Li
- National Key Facility for Crop Gene Resources and Genetic Improvement, Institute of Crop Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100081 China
| | - Xinming Yang
- National Key Facility for Crop Gene Resources and Genetic Improvement, Institute of Crop Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100081 China
| | - Weihua Liu
- National Key Facility for Crop Gene Resources and Genetic Improvement, Institute of Crop Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100081 China
| | - Yuqing Lu
- National Key Facility for Crop Gene Resources and Genetic Improvement, Institute of Crop Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100081 China
| | - Lihui Li
- 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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13
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Du K, Jiang T, Chen H, Murphy AM, Carr JP, Du Z, Li X, Fan Z, Zhou T. Viral Perturbation of Alternative Splicing of a Host Transcript Benefits Infection. PLANT PHYSIOLOGY 2020; 184:1514-1531. [PMID: 32958561 PMCID: PMC7608148 DOI: 10.1104/pp.20.00903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2020] [Accepted: 09/14/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Pathogens disturb alternative splicing patterns of infected eukaryotic hosts. However, in plants it is unknown if this is incidental to infection or represents a pathogen-induced remodeling of host gene expression needed to support infection. Here, we compared changes in transcription and protein accumulation with changes in transcript splicing patterns in maize (Zea mays) infected with the globally important pathogen sugarcane mosaic virus (SCMV). Our results suggested that changes in alternative splicing play a major role in determining virus-induced proteomic changes. Focusing on maize phytoene synthase1 (ZmPSY1), which encodes the key regulatory enzyme in carotenoid biosynthesis, we found that although SCMV infection decreases total ZmPSY1 transcript accumulation, the proportion of splice variant T001 increases by later infection stages so that ZmPSY1 protein levels are maintained. We determined that ZmPSY1 has two leaf-specific transcripts, T001 and T003, distinguished by differences between the respective 3'-untranslated regions (UTRs). The shorter 3'-UTR of T001 makes it the more efficient mRNA. Nonsense ZmPSY1 mutants or virus-induced silencing of ZmPSY1 expression suppressed SCMV accumulation, attenuated symptoms, and decreased chloroplast damage. Thus, ZmPSY1 acts as a proviral host factor that is required for virus accumulation and pathogenesis. Taken together, our findings reveal that SCMV infection-modulated alternative splicing ensures that ZmPSY1 synthesis is sustained during infection, which supports efficient virus infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaitong Du
- State Key Laboratory for Agro-Biotechnology, and Key Laboratory for Pest Monitoring and Green Management-Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Department of Plant Pathology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Tong Jiang
- State Key Laboratory for Agro-Biotechnology, and Key Laboratory for Pest Monitoring and Green Management-Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Department of Plant Pathology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Hui Chen
- State Key Laboratory for Agro-Biotechnology, and Key Laboratory for Pest Monitoring and Green Management-Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Department of Plant Pathology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Alex M Murphy
- Department of Plant Sciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EA, United Kingdom
| | - John P Carr
- Department of Plant Sciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EA, United Kingdom
| | - Zhiyou Du
- College of Life Sciences and Medicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310018, China
| | - Xiangdong Li
- College of Plant Protection, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian 271018, China
| | - Zaifeng Fan
- State Key Laboratory for Agro-Biotechnology, and Key Laboratory for Pest Monitoring and Green Management-Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Department of Plant Pathology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Tao Zhou
- State Key Laboratory for Agro-Biotechnology, and Key Laboratory for Pest Monitoring and Green Management-Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Department of Plant Pathology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
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14
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Harrington SA, Backhaus AE, Singh A, Hassani-Pak K, Uauy C. The Wheat GENIE3 Network Provides Biologically-Relevant Information in Polyploid Wheat. G3 (BETHESDA, MD.) 2020; 10:3675-3686. [PMID: 32747342 PMCID: PMC7534433 DOI: 10.1534/g3.120.401436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2020] [Accepted: 08/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Gene regulatory networks are powerful tools which facilitate hypothesis generation and candidate gene discovery. However, the extent to which the network predictions are biologically relevant is often unclear. Recently a GENIE3 network which predicted targets of wheat transcription factors was produced. Here we used an independent RNA-Seq dataset to test the predictions of the wheat GENIE3 network for the senescence-regulating transcription factor NAM-A1 (TraesCS6A02G108300). We re-analyzed the RNA-Seq data against the RefSeqv1.0 genome and identified a set of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between the wild-type and nam-a1 mutant which recapitulated the known role of NAM-A1 in senescence and nutrient remobilisation. We found that the GENIE3-predicted target genes of NAM-A1 overlap significantly with the DEGs, more than would be expected by chance. Based on high levels of overlap between GENIE3-predicted target genes and the DEGs, we identified candidate senescence regulators. We then explored genome-wide trends in the network related to polyploidy and found that only homeologous transcription factors are likely to share predicted targets in common. However, homeologs which vary in expression levels across tissues are less likely to share predicted targets than those that do not, suggesting that they may be more likely to act in distinct pathways. This work demonstrates that the wheat GENIE3 network can provide biologically-relevant predictions of transcription factor targets, which can be used for candidate gene prediction and for global analyses of transcription factor function. The GENIE3 network has now been integrated into the KnetMiner web application, facilitating its use in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie A Harrington
- Department of Crop Genetics, John Innes Centre, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, NR4 7UH, United Kingdom
| | - Anna E Backhaus
- Department of Crop Genetics, John Innes Centre, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, NR4 7UH, United Kingdom
| | - Ajit Singh
- Computational and Analytical Sciences, Rothamsted Research, Harpenden, Hertfordshire, AL5 2JQ, United Kingdom
| | - Keywan Hassani-Pak
- Computational and Analytical Sciences, Rothamsted Research, Harpenden, Hertfordshire, AL5 2JQ, United Kingdom
| | - Cristobal Uauy
- Department of Crop Genetics, John Innes Centre, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, NR4 7UH, United Kingdom
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15
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Liu H, Li H, Hao C, Wang K, Wang Y, Qin L, An D, Li T, Zhang X. TaDA1, a conserved negative regulator of kernel size, has an additive effect with TaGW2 in common wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). PLANT BIOTECHNOLOGY JOURNAL 2020; 18:1330-1342. [PMID: 31733093 PMCID: PMC7152612 DOI: 10.1111/pbi.13298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2019] [Revised: 09/29/2019] [Accepted: 11/05/2019] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Kernel size is an important trait determining cereal yields. In this study, we cloned and characterized TaDA1, a conserved negative regulator of kernel size in wheat (Triticum aestivum). The overexpression of TaDA1 decreased the size and weight of wheat kernels, while its down-regulation using RNA interference (RNAi) had the opposite effect. Three TaDA1-A haplotypes were identified in Chinese wheat core collections, and a haplotype association analysis showed that TaDA1-A-HapI was significantly correlated with the production of larger kernels and higher kernel weights in modern Chinese cultivars. The haplotype effect resulted from a difference in TaDA1-A expression levels between genotypes, with TaDA1-A-HapI resulting in lower TaDA1-A expression levels. This favourable haplotype was found having been positively selected during wheat breeding over the last century. Furthermore, we demonstrated that TaDA1-A physically interacts with TaGW2-B. The additive effects of TaDA1-A and TaGW2-B on kernel weight were confirmed not only by the phenotypic enhancement arising from the simultaneous down-regulation of TaDA1 and TaGW2 expression, but also by the combinational haplotype effects estimated from multi-environment field data from 348 wheat cultivars. A comparative proteome analysis of developing transgenic and wild-type grains indicated that TaDA1 and TaGW2 are involved in partially overlapping but relatively independent protein regulatory networks. Thus, we have identified an important gene controlling kernel size in wheat and determined its interaction with other genes regulating kernel weight, which could have beneficial applications in wheat breeding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Liu
- Key Laboratory of Crop Gene Resources and Germplasm EnhancementMinistry of AgricultureInstitute of Crop SciencesChinese Academy of Agricultural SciencesBeijingChina
- Center for Agricultural Resources ResearchInstitute of Genetics and Developmental BiologyChinese Academy of SciencesShijiazhuangHebeiChina
| | - Huifang Li
- Key Laboratory of Crop Gene Resources and Germplasm EnhancementMinistry of AgricultureInstitute of Crop SciencesChinese Academy of Agricultural SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Chenyang Hao
- Key Laboratory of Crop Gene Resources and Germplasm EnhancementMinistry of AgricultureInstitute of Crop SciencesChinese Academy of Agricultural SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Ke Wang
- Key Laboratory of Crop Gene Resources and Germplasm EnhancementMinistry of AgricultureInstitute of Crop SciencesChinese Academy of Agricultural SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Yamei Wang
- Key Laboratory of Crop Gene Resources and Germplasm EnhancementMinistry of AgricultureInstitute of Crop SciencesChinese Academy of Agricultural SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Lin Qin
- Key Laboratory of Crop Gene Resources and Germplasm EnhancementMinistry of AgricultureInstitute of Crop SciencesChinese Academy of Agricultural SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Diaoguo An
- Center for Agricultural Resources ResearchInstitute of Genetics and Developmental BiologyChinese Academy of SciencesShijiazhuangHebeiChina
| | - Tian Li
- Key Laboratory of Crop Gene Resources and Germplasm EnhancementMinistry of AgricultureInstitute of Crop SciencesChinese Academy of Agricultural SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Xueyong Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Crop Gene Resources and Germplasm EnhancementMinistry of AgricultureInstitute of Crop SciencesChinese Academy of Agricultural SciencesBeijingChina
- Agronomy CollegeGansu Agriculture UniversityLanzhou, GansuChina
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16
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Adamski NM, Borrill P, Brinton J, Harrington SA, Marchal C, Bentley AR, Bovill WD, Cattivelli L, Cockram J, Contreras-Moreira B, Ford B, Ghosh S, Harwood W, Hassani-Pak K, Hayta S, Hickey LT, Kanyuka K, King J, Maccaferrri M, Naamati G, Pozniak CJ, Ramirez-Gonzalez RH, Sansaloni C, Trevaskis B, Wingen LU, Wulff BBH, Uauy C. A roadmap for gene functional characterisation in crops with large genomes: Lessons from polyploid wheat. eLife 2020; 9:e55646. [PMID: 32208137 PMCID: PMC7093151 DOI: 10.7554/elife.55646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2020] [Accepted: 03/12/2020] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Understanding the function of genes within staple crops will accelerate crop improvement by allowing targeted breeding approaches. Despite their importance, a lack of genomic information and resources has hindered the functional characterisation of genes in major crops. The recent release of high-quality reference sequences for these crops underpins a suite of genetic and genomic resources that support basic research and breeding. For wheat, these include gene model annotations, expression atlases and gene networks that provide information about putative function. Sequenced mutant populations, improved transformation protocols and structured natural populations provide rapid methods to study gene function directly. We highlight a case study exemplifying how to integrate these resources. This review provides a helpful guide for plant scientists, especially those expanding into crop research, to capitalise on the discoveries made in Arabidopsis and other plants. This will accelerate the improvement of crops of vital importance for food and nutrition security.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Philippa Borrill
- School of Biosciences, University of BirminghamBirminghamUnited Kingdom
| | - Jemima Brinton
- John Innes Centre, Norwich Research ParkNorwichUnited Kingdom
| | | | | | | | - William D Bovill
- Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Agriculture and Food (CSIRO)CanberraAustralia
| | - Luigi Cattivelli
- Council for Agricultural Research and Economics, Research Centre for Genomics and BioinformaticsFiorenzuola d'ArdaItaly
| | | | - Bruno Contreras-Moreira
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory, European Bioinformatics Institute, Wellcome Genome CampusHinxtonUnited Kingdom
| | - Brett Ford
- Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Agriculture and Food (CSIRO)CanberraAustralia
| | - Sreya Ghosh
- John Innes Centre, Norwich Research ParkNorwichUnited Kingdom
| | - Wendy Harwood
- John Innes Centre, Norwich Research ParkNorwichUnited Kingdom
| | | | - Sadiye Hayta
- John Innes Centre, Norwich Research ParkNorwichUnited Kingdom
| | - Lee T Hickey
- Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation, The University of QueenslandSt LuciaAustralia
| | | | - Julie King
- Division of Plant and Crop Sciences, The University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington CampusLoughboroughUnited Kingdom
| | - Marco Maccaferrri
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences (DISTAL), Alma Mater Studiorum - Università di Bologna (University of Bologna)BolognaItaly
| | - Guy Naamati
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory, European Bioinformatics Institute, Wellcome Genome CampusHinxtonUnited Kingdom
| | - Curtis J Pozniak
- Crop Development Centre, University of SaskatchewanSaskatoonCanada
| | | | | | - Ben Trevaskis
- Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Agriculture and Food (CSIRO)CanberraAustralia
| | - Luzie U Wingen
- John Innes Centre, Norwich Research ParkNorwichUnited Kingdom
| | - Brande BH Wulff
- John Innes Centre, Norwich Research ParkNorwichUnited Kingdom
| | - Cristobal Uauy
- John Innes Centre, Norwich Research ParkNorwichUnited Kingdom
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17
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Guan P, Di N, Mu Q, Shen X, Wang Y, Wang X, Yu K, Song W, Chen Y, Xin M, Hu Z, Guo W, Yao Y, Ni Z, Sun Q, Peng H. Use of near-isogenic lines to precisely map and validate a major QTL for grain weight on chromosome 4AL in bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). TAG. THEORETICAL AND APPLIED GENETICS. THEORETISCHE UND ANGEWANDTE GENETIK 2019; 132:2367-2379. [PMID: 31119311 DOI: 10.1007/s00122-019-03359-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2019] [Accepted: 05/08/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
This study precisely mapped and validated a major quantitative trait locus (QTL) on chromosome 4AL for thousand-grain weight in wheat using multiple near-isogenic lines. Thousand-grain weight (TGW) is an essential yield component. Following the previous identification of a major QTL for TGW within the interval of 15.7 cM (92.7-108.4 cM) on chromosome 4AL using the Nongda3338 (ND3338)/Jingdong6 (JD6) doubled haploid population, the aim of this study was to perform more precise mapping and validate the genetic effect of the QTL. Multiple near-isogenic lines (NILs) were developed using ND3338 as the recurrent parent through marker-assisted selection. Based on five independent BC3F3:4 segregating populations derived from BC3F3 plants with different heterozygous segments for the target QTL site and the results of genotyping analysis performed using the Wheat660 K SNP array, it was possible to delimit the QTL region to a physical interval of approximately 6.5 Mb (677.11-683.61 Mb, IWGSC Ref Seq v1.0). Field trials across multiple environments showed that NILsJD6 had a consistent effect on increasing the TGW by 5.16-27.48% and decreasing the grain number per spike (GNS) by 3.98-32.91% compared to the corresponding NILsND3338, which exhibited locus-specific TGW-GNS trade-offs. Moreover, by using RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq) of whole grains at 10 days after pollination stage of multiple NILs, we found that differentially expressed genes between the NIL pairs were significantly enriched for cell cycle and the replication of chromosome-related genes, hence affecting cell division and cell proliferation. Overall, our results provide a basis for map-based cloning of the major QTL and determining the mechanisms underlying TGW-GNS trade-offs in wheat, which would help to fine-tune these two components and maximize the grain yield for breeders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panfeng Guan
- State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology/Key Laboratory of Crop Heterosis and Utilization, Ministry of Education/Beijing Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement/College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
- College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Na Di
- College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Qing Mu
- State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology/Key Laboratory of Crop Heterosis and Utilization, Ministry of Education/Beijing Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement/College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Xueyi Shen
- State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology/Key Laboratory of Crop Heterosis and Utilization, Ministry of Education/Beijing Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement/College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Yongfa Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology/Key Laboratory of Crop Heterosis and Utilization, Ministry of Education/Beijing Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement/College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Xiaobo Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology/Key Laboratory of Crop Heterosis and Utilization, Ministry of Education/Beijing Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement/College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Kuohai Yu
- State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology/Key Laboratory of Crop Heterosis and Utilization, Ministry of Education/Beijing Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement/College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Wanjun Song
- State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology/Key Laboratory of Crop Heterosis and Utilization, Ministry of Education/Beijing Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement/College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Yongming Chen
- State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology/Key Laboratory of Crop Heterosis and Utilization, Ministry of Education/Beijing Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement/College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Mingming Xin
- State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology/Key Laboratory of Crop Heterosis and Utilization, Ministry of Education/Beijing Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement/College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Zhaorong Hu
- State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology/Key Laboratory of Crop Heterosis and Utilization, Ministry of Education/Beijing Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement/College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Weilong Guo
- State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology/Key Laboratory of Crop Heterosis and Utilization, Ministry of Education/Beijing Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement/College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Yingyin Yao
- State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology/Key Laboratory of Crop Heterosis and Utilization, Ministry of Education/Beijing Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement/College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Zhongfu Ni
- State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology/Key Laboratory of Crop Heterosis and Utilization, Ministry of Education/Beijing Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement/College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Qixin Sun
- State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology/Key Laboratory of Crop Heterosis and Utilization, Ministry of Education/Beijing Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement/College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Huiru Peng
- State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology/Key Laboratory of Crop Heterosis and Utilization, Ministry of Education/Beijing Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement/College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China.
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18
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Azizi P, Osman M, Hanafi MM, Sahebi M, Rafii MY, Taheri S, Harikrishna JA, Tarinejad AR, Mat Sharani S, Yusuf MN. Molecular insights into the regulation of rice kernel elongation. Crit Rev Biotechnol 2019; 39:904-923. [PMID: 31303070 DOI: 10.1080/07388551.2019.1632257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
A large number of rice agronomic traits are complex, multi factorial and polygenic. As the mechanisms and genes determining grain size and yield are largely unknown, the identification of regulatory genes related to grain development remains a preeminent approach in rice genetic studies and breeding programs. Genes regulating cell proliferation and expansion in spikelet hulls and participating in endosperm development are the main controllers of rice kernel elongation and grain size. We review here and discuss recent findings on genes controlling rice grain size and the mechanisms, epialleles, epigenomic variation, and assessment of controlling genes using genome-editing tools relating to kernel elongation.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Azizi
- a Laboratory of Plantation Science and Technology, Institute of Plantation Studies, Universiti Putra Malaysia , Serdang , Malaysia.,b Laboratory of Climate-Smart Food Crop Production, Institute of Tropical Agriculture and Food Security, Universiti Putra Malaysia , Serdang , Malaysia
| | - M Osman
- c Department of Crop Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia , Serdang , Malaysia
| | - M M Hanafi
- a Laboratory of Plantation Science and Technology, Institute of Plantation Studies, Universiti Putra Malaysia , Serdang , Malaysia.,b Laboratory of Climate-Smart Food Crop Production, Institute of Tropical Agriculture and Food Security, Universiti Putra Malaysia , Serdang , Malaysia.,d Department of Land Management, Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia , Serdang , Malaysia
| | - M Sahebi
- b Laboratory of Climate-Smart Food Crop Production, Institute of Tropical Agriculture and Food Security, Universiti Putra Malaysia , Serdang , Malaysia
| | - M Y Rafii
- b Laboratory of Climate-Smart Food Crop Production, Institute of Tropical Agriculture and Food Security, Universiti Putra Malaysia , Serdang , Malaysia.,c Department of Crop Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia , Serdang , Malaysia
| | - S Taheri
- e Centre of Research in Biotechnology for Agriculture (CEBAR), University of Malaya , Kuala Lumpur , Malaysia
| | - J A Harikrishna
- e Centre of Research in Biotechnology for Agriculture (CEBAR), University of Malaya , Kuala Lumpur , Malaysia
| | - A R Tarinejad
- f Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture, Azarbaijan Shahid Madani University , Tabriz , Iran
| | - S Mat Sharani
- g Malaysia Genome Institute , Jalan Bangi , Malaysia
| | - M N Yusuf
- g Malaysia Genome Institute , Jalan Bangi , Malaysia
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19
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Wei J, Cao H, Liu JD, Zuo JH, Fang Y, Lin CT, Sun RZ, Li WL, Liu YX. Insights into transcriptional characteristics and homoeolog expression bias of embryo and de-embryonated kernels in developing grain through RNA-Seq and Iso-Seq. Funct Integr Genomics 2019; 19:919-932. [PMID: 31168755 DOI: 10.1007/s10142-019-00693-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2018] [Revised: 03/21/2019] [Accepted: 05/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is an allohexaploid, and the transcriptional characteristics of the wheat embryo and endosperm during grain development remain unclear. To analyze the transcriptome, we performed isoform sequencing (Iso-Seq) for wheat grain and RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq) for the embryo and de-embryonated kernels. The differential regulation between the embryo and de-embryonated kernels was found to be greater than the difference between the two time points for each tissue. Exactly 2264 and 4790 tissue-specific genes were found at 14 days post-anthesis (DPA), while 5166 and 3784 genes were found at 25 DPA in the embryo and de-embryonated kernels, respectively. Genes expressed in the embryo were more likely to be related to nucleic acid and enzyme regulation. In de-embryonated kernels, genes were rich in substance metabolism and enzyme activity functions. Moreover, 4351, 4641, 4516, and 4453 genes with the A, B, and D homoeoloci were detected for each of the four tissues. Expression characteristics suggested that the D genome may be the largest contributor to the transcriptome in developing grain. Among these, 48, 66, and 38 silenced genes emerged in the A, B, and D genomes, respectively. Gene ontology analysis showed that silenced genes could be inclined to different functions in different genomes. Our study provided specific gene pools of the embryo and de-embryonated kernels and a homoeolog expression bias model on a large scale. This is helpful for providing new insights into the molecular physiology of wheat.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Wei
- Key Laboratory of Plant Molecular Physiology, Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100093, China.,College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Hong Cao
- Key Laboratory of Plant Molecular Physiology, Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100093, China
| | - Jing-Dong Liu
- Key Laboratory of Plant Molecular Physiology, Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100093, China
| | - Jing-Hong Zuo
- Key Laboratory of Plant Molecular Physiology, Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100093, China.,College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Yu Fang
- Key Laboratory of Plant Molecular Physiology, Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100093, China.,College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Chih-Ta Lin
- Key Laboratory of Plant Resources, Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100093, China
| | - Run-Ze Sun
- Key Laboratory of Plant Resources, Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100093, China
| | - Wen-Long Li
- Key Laboratory of Plant Molecular Physiology, Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100093, China.,Science and Technology Daily, Beijing, 100093, China
| | - Yong-Xiu Liu
- Key Laboratory of Plant Molecular Physiology, Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100093, China.
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20
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Brinton J, Uauy C. A reductionist approach to dissecting grain weight and yield in wheat. JOURNAL OF INTEGRATIVE PLANT BIOLOGY 2019; 61:337-358. [PMID: 30421518 PMCID: PMC6492019 DOI: 10.1111/jipb.12741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2018] [Accepted: 11/07/2018] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Grain yield is a highly polygenic trait that is influenced by the environment and integrates events throughout the life cycle of a plant. In wheat, the major grain yield components often present compensatory effects among them, which alongside the polyploid nature of wheat, makes their genetic and physiological study challenging. We propose a reductionist and systematic approach as an initial step to understand the gene networks regulating each individual yield component. Here, we focus on grain weight and discuss the importance of examining individual sub-components, not only to help in their genetic dissection, but also to inform our mechanistic understanding of how they interrelate. This knowledge should allow the development of novel combinations, across homoeologs and between complementary modes of action, thereby advancing towards a more integrated strategy for yield improvement. We argue that this will break barriers in terms of phenotypic variation, enhance our understanding of the physiology of yield, and potentially deliver improved on-farm yield.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jemima Brinton
- John Innes CentreNorwich Research ParkNorwich NR4 7UHUnited Kingdom
| | - Cristobal Uauy
- John Innes CentreNorwich Research ParkNorwich NR4 7UHUnited Kingdom
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21
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Borrill P, Harrington SA, Uauy C. Applying the latest advances in genomics and phenomics for trait discovery in polyploid wheat. THE PLANT JOURNAL : FOR CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2019; 97:56-72. [PMID: 30407665 PMCID: PMC6378701 DOI: 10.1111/tpj.14150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2018] [Revised: 10/23/2018] [Accepted: 10/30/2018] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Improving traits in wheat has historically been challenging due to its large and polyploid genome, limited genetic diversity and in-field phenotyping constraints. However, within recent years many of these barriers have been lowered. The availability of a chromosome-level assembly of the wheat genome now facilitates a step-change in wheat genetics and provides a common platform for resources, including variation data, gene expression data and genetic markers. The development of sequenced mutant populations and gene-editing techniques now enables the rapid assessment of gene function in wheat directly. The ability to alter gene function in a targeted manner will unmask the effects of homoeolog redundancy and allow the hidden potential of this polyploid genome to be discovered. New techniques to identify and exploit the genetic diversity within wheat wild relatives now enable wheat breeders to take advantage of these additional sources of variation to address challenges facing food production. Finally, advances in phenomics have unlocked rapid screening of populations for many traits of interest both in greenhouses and in the field. Looking forwards, integrating diverse data types, including genomic, epigenetic and phenomics data, will take advantage of big data approaches including machine learning to understand trait biology in wheat in unprecedented detail.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philippa Borrill
- School of BiosciencesThe University of BirminghamBirminghamB15 2TTUK
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Brew-Appiah RAT, York ZB, Krishnan V, Roalson EH, Sanguinet KA. Genome-wide identification and analysis of the ALTERNATIVE OXIDASE gene family in diploid and hexaploid wheat. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0201439. [PMID: 30074999 PMCID: PMC6075773 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0201439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2018] [Accepted: 07/16/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
A comprehensive understanding of wheat responses to environmental stress will contribute to the long-term goal of feeding the planet. ALERNATIVE OXIDASE (AOX) genes encode proteins involved in a bypass of the electron transport chain and are also known to be involved in stress tolerance in multiple species. Here, we report the identification and characterization of the AOX gene family in diploid and hexaploid wheat. Four genes each were found in the diploid ancestors Triticum urartu, and Aegilops tauschii, and three in Aegilops speltoides. In hexaploid wheat (Triticum aestivum), 20 genes were identified, some with multiple splice variants, corresponding to a total of 24 proteins for those with observed transcription and translation. These proteins were classified as AOX1a, AOX1c, AOX1e or AOX1d via phylogenetic analysis. Proteins lacking most or all signature AOX motifs were assigned to putative regulatory roles. Analysis of protein-targeting sequences suggests mixed localization to the mitochondria and other organelles. In comparison to the most studied AOX from Trypanosoma brucei, there were amino acid substitutions at critical functional domains indicating possible role divergence in wheat or grasses in general. In hexaploid wheat, AOX genes were expressed at specific developmental stages as well as in response to both biotic and abiotic stresses such as fungal pathogens, heat and drought. These AOX expression patterns suggest a highly regulated and diverse transcription and expression system. The insights gained provide a framework for the continued and expanded study of AOX genes in wheat for stress tolerance through breeding new varieties, as well as resistance to AOX-targeted herbicides, all of which can ultimately be used synergistically to improve crop yield.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rhoda A. T. Brew-Appiah
- Department of Crop and Soil Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, United States of America
| | - Zara B. York
- Department of Crop and Soil Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, United States of America
| | - Vandhana Krishnan
- Stanford Center for Genomics and Personalized Medicine, Department of Genetics, Stanford University, Stanford, United States of America
| | - Eric H. Roalson
- School of Biological Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, United States of America
| | - Karen A. Sanguinet
- Department of Crop and Soil Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, United States of America
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