Stem Photosynthesis in Almond Breeding for Yield
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Solution Overview
Problem
Almond (Prunus dulcis) yield is limited by carbohydrate deficiency during dormancy due to insufficient chilling requirements, leading to disrupted flowering and fruit set, and existing genetic studies lack understanding of stem photosynthetic capacity in Prunus arabica, which could enhance CO2 assimilation.
Innovation Solution
A method involving crossing domesticated Prunus dulcis with Prunus amygdalus to introduce stem photosynthetic capability, utilizing specific sequence variations on chromosomes 7 and 1, and potentially down-regulating AGL82 activity to increase yield and CO2 assimilation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If winter temperature increases, then almond trees can grow in warmer climates, but chilling requirements are not sufficiently provided leading to carbohydrate deficiency and disrupted flowering
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces sequence variations in genes involved in carbohydrate metabolism and stem photosynthesis to change the physiological parameters of the almond tree, enabling it to maintain carbohydrate levels and perform photosynthesis during dormancy in warmer winter conditions, thus resolving the contradiction between temperature adaptation and yield maintenance
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables continuous photosynthetic activity in the stems during the dormant period when leaves are absent, allowing the tree to continuously produce carbohydrates throughout winter months, thereby maintaining energy levels for flowering and fruit set even in warmer climates
2Use of energy by moving object
If leaves are present during dormancy, then photosynthesis can occur to maintain carbohydrate levels, but deciduous trees naturally drop leaves during dormancy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent shifts photosynthetic activity from the traditional leaf organ to the stem organ, creating a new dimension for photosynthesis during dormancy. The stem photosynthesis pathway operates independently of leaf presence, allowing carbohydrate production to continue throughout the dormant period when leaves are absent
3Productivity
If stem photosynthesis is enhanced, then CO2 assimilation increases and carbohydrate deficiency is compensated, but genetic understanding of stem photosynthesis in Prunus arabica is currently limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary genetic characterization of Prunus arabica, identifying and sequencing genes associated with stem photosynthesis capability before applying them to Prunus dulcis. This preliminary genetic analysis provides the foundational information needed to subsequently enhance stem photosynthesis in domesticated almond varieties
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses Prunus arabica as an intermediary species to bridge the gap in genetic understanding of stem photosynthesis. By first characterizing the genetic basis of stem photosynthesis in P. arabica and then transferring these insights to P. dulcis, the patent creates a knowledge transfer pathway that resolves the information deficiency
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The method enhances CO2 assimilation in domesticated almond trees, compensating for carbohydrate deficiencies and improving yield by leveraging the stem photosynthetic capacity of Prunus arabica, potentially reducing the need for fertilizers and extending tree lifespan.
Implementation Method 1
P. arabica stems remain moist and green during the whole year... no physiological evidence was published regarding the photosynthetic activity of the green stems of P. arabica... high efficiency of CO2 assimilation comparable with that of the leaf was demonstrated
Data Source
AI summary
A method of increasing yield of a domesticated Prunus dulcis plant is provided. Also provided is a method of increasing stem photosynthetic capability (SPC) and a method of identifying a donor plant for use in a breeding program of Prunus dulcis. Provided are domesticated Prunus dulcis with enhanced agricultural traits.