Plant Breeding
Articles tagged with Plant Breeding
Identification of a key gene that enables tomato seed germination under high-temperature conditions
Tomatoes have difficulty germinating under prolonged heat stress, but two mutant lines with the loss-of-function mutation in SlIAA9 showed little decline in germination and normal seedling development. The mutants exhibited elevated expression of antioxidant enzymes and heat shock proteins, leading to enhanced resilience to heat stress.
The fast-track tree breeding method that is restoring European ash to the landscape
Researchers at John Innes Centre develop rapid seed germination protocol, reducing Ash dieback's impact. This new method has already produced over 2,000 seedlings for trials and research.
Genome editing turns red lettuce green and increases beneficial flavonoid content
Researchers used genome editing to inactivate a gene involved in anthocyanin production, resulting in increased accumulation of other flavonoids. This modification did not affect lettuce growth, suggesting a promising strategy for developing cultivars with tailored functional components.
Integration of two genes: A valuable strategy for developing virus-resistant tomatoes
Researchers discovered a combination of Ty-1/Ty-3 and Ty-6 resistance genes in tomato plants provides highly robust protection against begomoviruses. Integration of fewer resistance genes than expected can enhance resistance, offering a promising approach for improving tomato varieties while balancing productivity and fruit quality.
Omics consortium established to supercharge climate-adapted wheat breeding
A global collaboration will create a comprehensive atlas of wheat biology using spatial omics, enabling researchers to decode integrated mechanisms of development and stress response. This technology aims to improve grain yield and quality for bread-making, addressing food insecurity and malnutrition.
Unexpected potential bacterial symbiosis found in fungus that causes angular leaf spot
Researchers analyzed 48 isolates of P. griseola and found a potential symbiotic relationship between the fungus and endophytic bacterium Achromobacter xylosoxidans, influencing disease severity. The study sheds light on how the pathogen evolves and may point to new strategies for breeding disease-resistant crops.
Study identifies causes of potato dry rot in Colorado
Researchers at Colorado State University have identified four Fusarium species causing potato dry rot in the San Luis Valley, including one not previously found in the US. This study will help improve disease diagnosis and monitoring, as well as guide cultivar selection and breeding for disease resistance.
Plant hormone therapy could improve global food security
Researchers at Colorado State University have found a way to boost plant growth while maintaining its immune system through hormone treatment, showing promise for increasing food production. The approach involves genetically manipulating phytohormone interactions to restore cell division and increase disease resistance.
Survey says: Floriculture sustainability differs by industry sector
The survey found that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to sustainability in floriculture, with each sector having unique needs and goals. Healthy majorities of respondents already recycle containers and use LED lighting, while sectors differ in their interest for future sustainable practices.
Scientists find potential for better soybean harvests by mining genomes for cyst nematode resistance
Researchers have identified novel sources of soybean resistance to cyst nematode that could help protect global soybean production. The study reveals a wealth of previously untapped genetic resistance to SCN by mining deep into soybean genomes.
CRISPR primes goldenberry for fruit bowl fame
Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory use CRISPR to edit the goldenberry plant, reducing its growth by 35% and making it suitable for denser farming. The team hopes to breed plants with desirable traits such as fruit size and disease resistance.
New book explores how controlled environment horticulture is shaping the future of sustainable food production
The book explores how CEH can enhance yield, quality, and resource efficiency through technological innovation. It also highlights the role of biotechnology in ensuring global food security.
Study finds gene responsible for wheat variety with three ovaries
Researchers at the University of Adelaide discovered a gene responsible for a rare form of wheat that grows three ovaries per flower. The study found that a complex genome rearrangement was associated with the activation of a normally dormant WUSCHEL-D1 gene, leading to increased grain production and improved breeding technologies.
IITA-CGIAR scientist named one of Africa Food Prize 2025 laureates for breakthrough in cassava and yam seed systems
Dr Mercy Diebiru-Ojo recognized for her work on Semi-Autotrophic Hydroponics (SAH), a technology accelerating the production of clean planting materials. The innovation boosts agricultural productivity, food security, and creates opportunities for youth and women agripreneurs.
Unraveling variations in ‘centromeres’: The engines of chromosomal segregation
Researchers analyzed centromeres in onion, garlic, and Welsh onion using CENH3-targeted antibody to map centromere regions. They found significant variations in size and position/mobility between species, challenging the static view of centromeres.
Genomic techniques can streamline breeding for grain quality
Researchers developed a strategy to predict multiple traits at once based on the whole genome, increasing predictive ability by 2-10 times. This method, called multi-trait genomic selection (MT-GS), combines genetic markers with known trait links for more accurate predictions, making it a promising tool for efficient and cost-effective...
Researchers identify key survival strategy for soybeans during heat and drought
Researchers at the University of Missouri discovered that soybeans employ differential transpiration as a natural defense strategy to cool reproductive tissues under extreme weather conditions. This adaptation allows plants to save significant amounts of water while protecting their flowers and seed pods.
80% of Brazil’s land with the highest potential for discovering new flowering plant species lies outside conservation units, but half of these high-potential areas are within protected indigenous lands
Half of Brazil's high-potential areas for discovering new angiosperm species are located within protected indigenous lands. The study highlights the need for conservation priorities in these areas.
Here are the flowers that both bees and humans like best
Researchers from the University of Copenhagen and UK identified a set of flower mixtures that attract both pollinators and delight the human eye. The study found that seed mixes containing species like yarrow, cornflower, and purple viper's bugloss establish themselves better in soil and bloom for longer.
Drought-resilient plant holds promise for future food production, study finds
Researchers at Colorado State University have demonstrated the reversal of embolism in a type of wild grass, which can recover from extended drought within 24 hours. This finding has significant implications for improving agricultural productivity and food security, as it could potentially be bred into crops to make them more resilient...
Cannabis pangenome reveals potential for medicinal and industrial use
Researchers created the most comprehensive genetic atlas of cannabis, revealing unprecedented diversity and untapped opportunity in this foundational agricultural species. The study sets the stage for transformative advances in cannabis-based agriculture, medicine, and industry.
Australian Academy of Science honors Murdoch University agricultural researcher
Rajeev Varshney, a Murdoch University professor, has been elected as a Fellow of the Australian Academy of Science. He is recognized for his groundbreaking work in genomics, genetics, and pre-breeding, helping to secure food production in the face of climate change.
Research team homes in on genetics behind blackberry thorns
A research team has pinpointed the genetic location behind thorns in blackberries, enabling plant breeders to accelerate the creation of thornless varieties. The study used genome-wide association studies and genotyping to identify a specific region of DNA associated with the prickly trait.
European potato genome decoded: Small gene pool with large differences
The study of historic potato cultivars reveals a limited genetic pool due to bottleneck effects after introduction from South America. The researchers found that the differences between individual chromosome copies are huge, diverging twenty times greater than in humans.
First new plant tissue discovered in 160 years boosts crop yields
A new plant tissue has been discovered in plants essential for seed formation, which can increase crop yields. The 'Kasahara Gateway' structure functions as a gateway and is regulated by a gene called AtBG_ppap.
Corpse flowers are threatened by spotty recordkeeping
A study by Northwestern University scientists found that incomplete historical records have led to low genetic diversity and population decline among corpse flowers. The lack of standardized data makes it challenging for conservationists to make informed decisions about breeding, resulting in a high percentage of cloned plants.
Tomato plants delay shoot meristem maturation to achieve heat-stress resilience
A new study reveals that tomato plants adapt to heat stress by delaying shoot apical stem cell development, allowing for stable yields. This redox-controlled mechanism enables the plant to temporarily suspend its maturation program during adverse conditions, resulting in significant yield losses prevention.
Traditional breeding falls short in boosting soybean photosynthesis
A team from the University of Illinois found that traditional breeding methods are unlikely to improve soybean light-harvesting efficiency. Gene editing is likely needed to unlock soybean potential. The researchers gathered detailed measurements throughout an entire growing season to understand photoprotection relaxation in soybeans.
Promoting sustainable agriculture for pollinators: presenting the newly launched AGRI4POL project
The AGRI4POL project aims to transform agriculture into a positive force for biodiversity and crop pollination services. It will deliver an integrated analysis of the crop-farming system-pollinator interplay across biological organisation levels.
‘False’ springs, long summers mean uncertainty for NY grape growers
Grapevines rely on external signals to gain cold hardiness for winter and develop buds in the spring. Warmer autumns and false springs disrupt this process, making NY grape growers vulnerable to late frost damage. Planting diverse varieties is key to adapting to climate change.
Biomedicine shows the way to future food crops
University of Queensland researchers have successfully introduced genetic material into plants via their roots using nanoparticle technology, enabling rapid crop improvement. This innovative approach could lead to the development of new crop varieties with improved yield and quality without traditional breeding methods.
High-yield rice breed emits up to 70% less methane
Scientists have identified chemical compounds released by rice roots that determine how much methane the plants emit. A new strain of rice was bred using traditional breeding methods, resulting in yields of 8.96 tons/hectare while emitting up to 70% less methane.
New research sheds light on furan fatty acids in rubber tree latex
Furan fatty acids have been found to exist in all samples of rubber tree latex, with varying concentrations. The study identifies specific genotypes with high FuFA content, offering potential for enhanced economic value and sustainability.
GenEditScan: novel k-mer analysis tool based on next-generation sequencing for foreign DNA detection in genome-edited products
GenEditScan is a novel k-mer analysis tool that efficiently detects foreign DNA sequences in genome-edited crops. It has been designed to be user-friendly and accurate, with a correction function to reduce false positives, enabling reliable testing of genome-edited products.
Study finds genetic mechanisms behind high-yield apple trees
A study has identified a gene called MdTCP11 that controls the growth of compact apple trees, also known as spur-type varieties. These trees exhibit increased fruit yield and require less pruning, making them ideal for modern orchards.
Superior photosynthesis abilities of some plants could hold key to climate-resilient crops
Researchers found that a regulatory level change enabled C4 plants to photosynthesize more efficiently. By studying this shift, they believe it could be applied to make C3 crops like rice and wheat more resilient to climate change.
Linking data on genetics, traits and environment gives crop breeders a wider lens
A new study from Iowa State University aims to increase emphasis on phenotypic plasticity in improving crop performance. Researchers linked crop traits, genetics and weather conditions using a quantitative framework, predicting flowering time and yield component traits with high accuracy.
Heartier Heinz? How scientists are learning to help tomatoes beat the heat
Researchers at Brown University identified key growth cycle phases and molecular mechanisms that make some tomato varieties more heat tolerant. The discovery could inform a strategy to protect the food supply in the face of climate instability.
How ‘vaccinating’ plants could reduce pesticide use and secure global food supplies
Induced resistance, a plant-based approach, prepares plants to fight pests and disease by activating their immune systems. This holistic strategy combines multiple methods for tailored protection, enhancing abilities beyond just one defense mechanism.
Scientists have successfully bred corals to improve their heat tolerance
Researchers at Newcastle University successfully bred adult corals to enhance their heat tolerance in a controlled study. The study showed modest improvements in coral offspring's ability to survive intense marine heatwaves, but emphasized the need for rapid reductions in global greenhouse gas emissions to mitigate warming.
Unlocking the genetic mysteries of modern roses
Researchers have decoded the genetic makeup of 'Samantha' rose variety to create a powerful resource for future comparative genomic studies. The study found that human selection has significantly influenced the genetic diversity of modern roses, but preserving genetic traits is essential for their health and adaptability.
Vitis vinifera and muscadines: Grape breeders seek the best of both grapes
A $7M grant is supporting a four-year project to breed wide hybrids of muscadines and Vitis vinifera, combining desirable traits like disease resistance and crisp texture. The goal is to introduce new grape hybrids with enhanced quality leading to a more resilient US grape industry.
Illinois scientists to test modernized genetic model for optimized crop breeding
Researchers at the University of Illinois are testing a new genetic framework called the omnigenic model to improve crop breeding. The model divides genes into core and peripheral components, with peripheral genes influencing complex traits through cellular processes.
Genomic treasure trove: Vernicia montana's DNA unearths new breeding horizons
A pioneering study decodes the chromosome-level genome of Vernicia montana, providing insights into its evolution and setting the stage for advanced molecular breeding and sex identification methods. The research identifies a reliable molecular marker for sex determination, streamlining the selection process for high-yielding female tr...
Illinois scientists to revamp corn breeding with focus on climate resilience
Researchers are working on a new approach to breeding corn that incorporates genomic selection and gene expression analysis to improve climate resilience. They aim to develop high-accuracy prediction models that can identify suitable genotypes for specific locations and future climates, reducing the need for trial-and-error approaches.
Transformative approach in cassava breeding: Inbred-parent-based hybrids promise enhanced efficiency and resilience
Researchers propose a transformative approach to cassava breeding, leveraging self-compatibility, flower-inducing technology, and genomics advancements. This innovative strategy aims to purge deleterious mutations, utilize heterosis, and create heterotic pools, enhancing adaptability and resilience in cassava production.
Genome study informs restoration of American chestnut tree
A genome study has identified regional adaptations in American chestnut trees, informing restoration efforts and climate resilience. The research provides guidance for conserving genetic diversity across the Appalachian region, with a focus on preserving the most genetically diverse southern population.
Groundcherry gets genetic upgrades: Turning a garden curiosity into an agricultural powerhouse
Researchers have used CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing to improve groundcherry's growth habit and fruit characteristics. This breakthrough could lead to increased crop yields and reduce the need for pesticides. The study also highlights the potential of groundcherry as a model species for studying plant biology.
Genomic data integration improves prediction accuracy of apple fruit traits!
Researchers combined DNA markers from two genotyping systems to improve genomic predictions and GWAS for 24 fruit traits. The results showed increased accuracy and detection power when using combined datasets, suggesting benefits to leveraging historical data.
New Co-Editor-in-Chief announced for Pest Management Science
Mithila Jugulam has been appointed Co-Editor-in-Chief of Pest Management Science, bringing expertise in weed physiology and molecular biology. She aims to foster interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation, while maintaining the journal's commitment to scientific rigor and editorial integrity.
Finding hidden genetic treasure: Study uncovers untapped diversity in historic wheat collection
A decade-long study has discovered a vast untapped genetic potential in modern wheat varieties, revealing that at least 60% of the genetic diversity found in a historic collection is unused. This discovery provides an unprecedented opportunity to improve modern wheat and sustainably feed a growing global population. The study used a cr...
Q&A: Finding varieties of corn that are adapted to future climates
The study found that existing corn varieties are not ideal for future climates and that new crops with specific traits will be necessary. The research suggests that warmer temperatures, drier air, and increased CO2 will lead to decreased yields unless adaptations are made.
Sweetpotato’s sweet revenge
Researchers have identified 31 effector genes from the fungus Ceratocystis fimbriata, which causes devastating black rot in sweetpotatoes. This breakthrough provides a new approach to developing disease-resistant crops using effector-assisted breeding.
Changes Upstream: RIPE team uses CRISPR/Cas9 to alter photosynthesis for the first time
Researchers from the University of Illinois have used CRISPR/Cas9 to alter the upstream regulatory DNA of a food crop, increasing gene expression and improving downstream photosynthesis. This approach, which does not require adding foreign DNA, has shown promising results in increasing photosynthetic activity in rice.
Democratizing plant research: A new cost-effective solution for advanced phenotyping
A new system developed by Boyce Thompson Institute makes affordable, mobile and high-throughput phenotyping tools accessible worldwide. This allows researchers to conduct data-driven studies on plant growth and responses over time, accelerating breeding of more resilient crop varieties.
Genetic editing of ideal small grain size genes enables fully mechanized hybrid rice breeding
Researchers identified an ideal small-grain gene, GSE3, and used CRISPR-Cas9 technology to edit it in male sterile lines, achieving fully mechanized hybrid seed production. This breakthrough enables significant yield improvements and enhances food security.
Salty soil sensitizes plants to an unconventional mode of bacterial toxicity
A study reveals that salty soil conditions can facilitate disease in plants caused by the Gram-negative bacterium Pseudomonas brassicacearum R401. The researchers identified a phytotoxic metabolite, brassicapeptin, which is toxic to plants under salt stress and forms pores in plant membranes.
Some varieties of annual flowers have a place in pollinator-friendly gardens
A new study finds significant variation in pollinator attractiveness among annual flower cultivars, with some varieties drawing in more insects than others. Begonia and impatiens cultivars were found to be particularly attractive to bees and other pollinators.
Like dad and like mum…all in one plant
Researchers have developed a system to generate clonal sex cells in tomato plants, which they used to design the genomes of offspring. The resulting plants contain the complete genetic information of both parents, offering a potential solution to the labor-intensive and expensive process of producing hybrid seeds.