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Crop transformation and the challenge to increase yield potential
Thomas R Sinclair1, Larry C Purcell, Clay H Sneller
1Agricultural Research Service, US Department of Agriculture, Agronomy Physiology Laboratory, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611-0965, USA. trsincl@mail.ifas.ufl.edu
Trends in Plant Science
|April 23, 2004
Summary
Molecular transformation offers hope for crop yield stagnation. However, translating basic research into higher crop yields requires understanding physiological limitations and key success factors.
Area of Science:
- Agricultural Science
- Plant Physiology
- Genetics
Background:
- Crop yield potential has stagnated, prompting interest in molecular transformation.
- A hierarchical understanding of yield from gene expression to harvest reveals limitations for direct genetic yield increases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of molecular transformation in increasing crop yield.
- To identify critical factors for success in developing higher-yielding crop cultivars.
Main Methods:
- Review of 40 years of biochemical and physiological research.
- Analysis of case studies where physiological research led to yield improvements.
Main Results:
- Translating basic research into crop yield improvements is challenging.
- Few, but significant, successes exist where physiological research enhanced crop cultivars.
Conclusions:
- Molecular transformation alone may not guarantee major yield increases.
- Understanding physiological constraints and specific success elements is crucial for developing improved crop cultivars.