CRISPR-Cas9 Editing of FEA3 Locus for Meristem Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods lack the ability to effectively control the size and development of shoot and floral meristems in plants, which is crucial for improving agronomic characteristics such as kernel number and yield.
Innovation Solution
The use of CRISPR-Cas endonucleases guided by specific guide RNAs to introduce targeted DNA modifications at the fea3 genomic locus, allowing for altered expression or activity of the FEA3 polypeptide, thereby modulating meristem development and agronomic traits.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional plant breeding methods are used, then plant development is natural and stable, but the ability to control meristem size and agronomic characteristics is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the genetic parameters of the FEA3 gene through CRISPR-Cas9 mediated DNA edits. Specific nucleotide changes (point mutations, insertions, deletions) are introduced at the fea3 genomic locus to alter gene expression and protein function, thereby changing plant meristem size and agronomic characteristics in a controlled manner
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical breeding methods with a molecular biology-based system. The CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing technology substitutes traditional cross-breeding and selection processes, allowing direct modification of the FEA3 gene sequence to achieve desired phenotypic changes more efficiently
2Productivity
If FEA3 gene expression is increased to control meristem size, then agronomic characteristics improve, but gene regulation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by making specific targeted changes at the FEA3 gene locus rather than modifying the entire genome. The CRISPR-Cas9 system introduces precise DNA edits (point mutations, small insertions or deletions) at specific positions within the FEA3 gene or its regulatory regions, allowing fine-tuned control of gene expression and protein function to optimize meristem size and agronomic traits
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs partial action by introducing specific, limited DNA changes rather than comprehensive genomic modifications. The CRISPR-Cas9 system targets only the FEA3 gene and its immediate regulatory elements, making partial modifications that are sufficient to achieve the desired phenotypic effects without the complexity of whole-genome approaches
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
This approach enables the selection of plants with specific alterations in agronomic characteristics, such as ear meristem size, kernel row number, and yield, leading to improved crop performance.
Implementation Method 1
a Cas endonuclease that creates a DNA break at the fea3 genomic locus in association with the guide RNA
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and compositions for modulating plant meristems. Methods are provided for modulating fea3 and/or Fcp1 genomic locus in a host plant or plant cell to improve agronomic characteristics such as kernel number.