Discovery of root anatomy gene may lead to breeding more resilient corn crops

By: Penn State University

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — A new discovery, reported today in a global study that encompassed more than a decade of research, could lead to the breeding of corn crops that can withstand drought and low-nitrogen soil conditions and ultimately ease global food insecurity, according to a Penn State-led team of international researchers.

In findings published today (March 16) in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Science, the researchers identified a gene encoding a transcription factor – a protein useful for converting DNA into RNA – that triggers a genetic sequence responsible for the development of an important trait enabling corn roots to acquire more water and nutrients.

Read more here: https://www.psu.edu/news/research/story/discovery-root-anatomy-gene-may-lead-breeding-more-resilient-corn-crops/?utm_campaign=03-23-23+-+%F0%9F%92%A1At+Big+Idea&utm_source=Message&utm_medium=Linkedin