CRISPR-Edited BR2 Gene for Semi-Dwarf Corn Yield
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current corn breeding techniques struggle to identify and utilize dwarf or semi-dwarf mutations that confer a short stature without severely impacting kernel yield or introducing undesirable traits in maize.
Innovation Solution
The development of a corn plant with a non-natural brachytic mutation, specifically a modified BR2 gene with reduced activity, achieved through targeted genome editing using CRISPR technology, which results in a semi-dwarf phenotype without the negative effects of natural brachytic mutations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional dwarfing mutations are introduced to reduce plant height and improve lodging resistance, then mechanical stability is improved, but kernel yield is severely impacted
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the genetic parameter by introducing a specific brachytic mutation that reduces plant height while preserving reproductive organ development, thereby achieving both improved mechanical stability and maintained kernel yield
Solution Approach 2:
The invention applies local quality by creating a mutation that specifically affects internode length while leaving other plant organs (leaves, ears, tassels) unaffected, thus achieving short stature without compromising yield
2Length of moving object
If existing brachytic mutants are used to achieve short stature, then plant height is reduced, but reproductive organs are adversely affected
Solution Approach 1:
The invention makes different parts of the plant have different properties by specifically shortening internodes while preserving the development and function of reproductive organs, achieving localized morphological change without compromising overall plant function
3Length of moving object
If conventional breeding methods are used to identify dwarf mutations, then short stature can be achieved, but the process is time-consuming and yield impact is severe
Solution Approach 1:
The invention performs preliminary action by directly introducing a known beneficial brachytic mutation through genome editing, bypassing the time-consuming process of screening numerous mutants to find one with acceptable yield characteristics
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein are plants exhibiting a semi-dwarf phenotype with reduced plant height compared to control wildtype plants. Some of the disclosed semi-dwarf plants comprise at least one non-natural brachytic mutation in which the activity of a BR2 gene is reduced. Also disclosed are methods for producing a semi-dwarf corn plant using a CRISPR based genome editing system.