DRO1 Gene Editing for Precise Root Architecture Traits

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for modifying root architecture in plants are inadequate for improving yield traits, limiting crop and horticultural plant performance in nutrient and water acquisition.

Innovation Solution

The use of CRISPR-Cas systems and base editing technologies to introduce non-natural mutations in the DEEPER ROOTING 1 (DRO1) gene, specifically targeting cis-regulatory elements, to enhance root architecture by increasing root biomass, steeper root angles, and longer roots, thereby improving yield traits.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If conventional breeding methods are used to improve root architecture, then yield improvement is limited, but the process is time-consuming and less precise

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveyield improvementVSAvoidbreeding time

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces conventional mechanical breeding processes with CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing technology. Instead of relying on natural selection and人工 selection over multiple generations, the invention directly modifies the DRO1 gene sequence in the plant genome, achieving precise control over root architecture traits without time-consuming breeding cycles.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention changes the genetic parameter of the DRO1 gene through specific point mutations (e.g., changing nucleotide sequences). By modifying the gene's nucleotide sequence rather than relying on phenotypic selection, the patent achieves rapid transformation of root architecture traits while maintaining precise genetic control.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Productivity

If artificial selection is used to improve root architecture, then some yield improvement is achieved, but precision and control are limited

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveyield improvementVSAvoidgenetic modification precision

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by targeting a specific gene (DRO1) with a specific function in root development. Rather than attempting to improve root architecture through general selection, the invention focuses on modifying the specific nucleotide sequence of the DRO1 gene, achieving precise control over root angle, depth, and biomass with high genetic accuracy.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The invention replaces imprecise artificial selection with precise CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing. The system uses guide RNAs to target specific sequences in the DRO1 gene and introduces controlled mutations, achieving manufacturing precision at the genetic level that cannot be obtained through conventional selection methods.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Quantity of substance

If root architecture is modified to increase root biomass and length, then nutrient and water acquisition improves, but plant architecture becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveroot biomassVSAvoidroot architecture complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Quantity of substanceVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The invention changes the genetic parameter of the DRO1 gene to control root architecture. By modifying specific nucleotides in the gene's coding sequence or regulatory regions, the patent achieves increased root biomass and length while maintaining manageable architectural complexity through precise genetic control rather than uncontrolled growth.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

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 results in plants with enhanced root architecture and improved yield traits, such as increased biomass, steeper root angles, and longer roots, leading to better nutrient and water uptake under various environmental conditions.

Implementation Method 1

The use of CRISPR-Cas systems and base editing technologies to introduce non-natural mutations in the DEEPER ROOTING 1 (DRO1) gene

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectCRISPR-Cas gene editing:

Implementation Method 2

a base editing system comprising: (a) a CRISPR-Cas associated effector protein; (b) a cytidine deaminase or adenosine deaminase

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectCytidine deamination:

Implementation Method 3

a base editing system comprising: (a) a CRISPR-Cas associated effector protein; (b) a cytidine deaminase or adenosine deaminase

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectAdenosine deamination:

Data Source

PatentUS12365910B2Methods and compositions for modifying root architecture in plants

Publication Date: 2025.07.22 PAIRWISE PLANTS SERVICES INC

AI summary

This invention relates to compositions and methods for modifying root architecture in a plant through modification of endogenous DEEPER ROOTING 1 (DRO1) nucleic acids. The invention further relates to plants produced using the methods and compositions of the invention.