KRN2 Gene Inhibition for Higher Kernel Row Number in Maize
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Solution Overview
Problem
The maize genome's complexity hinders effective map-based cloning of quantitative trait loci (QTL) related to kernel row number (KRN), which is a crucial factor affecting maize yield, making it difficult to develop high-yield varieties through molecular breeding.
Innovation Solution
Identification and cloning of the KRN2 gene, along with the development of molecular markers and CRISPR/Cas9-based gene editing, to inhibit KRN2 expression, thereby increasing kernel row number and yield in maize and other crops.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If map-based cloning is used to identify QTLs related to kernel row number, then the genetic basis of KRN can be understood, but the complex maize genome makes the process extremely difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and isolates the specific KRN2 gene from the complex maize genome by developing targeted molecular markers that flank the QTL region. This extraction approach bypasses the time-consuming process of traditional map-based cloning by directly identifying and isolating the causal gene responsible for kernel row number variation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces molecular markers as intermediary tools that serve as proxies for the target QTL region. These markers act as mediators that enable indirect selection and identification of the KRN2 gene, significantly accelerating the breeding process compared to direct map-based cloning approaches.
2Productivity
If traditional molecular marker-assisted selection is used for KRN trait improvement, then breeding progress can be made, but the process is slow due to the need for multiple backcrossing generations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary identification and characterization of the KRN2 gene and its associated molecular markers before initiating breeding programs. This preliminary action allows breeders to directly select for the target trait using marker-assisted selection without requiring multiple generations of backcrossing, thereby dramatically reducing the breeding cycle duration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical, time-consuming process of repeated backcrossing and phenotypic selection with a molecular-level approach using CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing and marker-assisted selection. This substitution of mechanical breeding operations with molecular techniques accelerates the breeding process while maintaining or improving productivity.
3Quantity of substance
If multiple micro-effect QTLs are included in the confidence interval, then the QTL mapping becomes less precise, but the complexity of cloning multiple genes increases the difficulty significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the presence of multiple micro-effect QTLs in the confidence interval from a complicating factor into a beneficial situation by using them as additional molecular markers for selection. Instead of attempting to clone and characterize each individual QTL (which would increase complexity), the patent utilizes all QTLs in the region as selectable markers, thereby simplifying the overall breeding strategy while maintaining mapping precision.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided herein are KRN2 gene controlling kernel row number in plant, molecular markers closely linked to KRN2 and their application in molecular breeding.