Сhina advances gene-editing technology to develop high-density corn varieties

Chinese scientists have successfully applied gene-editing technology to reduce corn plant height, facilitating the development of compact, high-density varieties with enhanced resistance to lodging. This was reported by CGTN, a partner of TV BRICS.

As the world’s most widely cultivated cereal crop, corn is essential for global food security. Increasing planting density is a key approach to improving yields, yet efforts to develop shorter, more resilient plants have been constrained by limited genetic resources.

A team of researchers from the Biotechnology Research Institute of the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), in collaboration with Anhui Agricultural University and South China Agricultural University, focused on modifying the Br2 gene through targeted gene editing.

By designing a knockout vector for Br2, they identified seven transgenic lines with distinct genetic mutations in inbred corn varieties.

Hybridisation experiments confirmed that all 28 hybrid offspring resulting from crosses with elite inbred lines exhibited dwarf characteristics.

To accelerate breeding, the scientists introduced a haploid inducer-mediated genome editing system, which allows for the rapid transformation of edited haploid plants into stable double-haploid lines within two generations. Trials with three elite inbred lines showed significant reductions in plant height.

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

The breakthrough offers a crucial tool for developing corn varieties suited for high-density planting while improving their structural resilience, contributing to advancements in agricultural productivity.