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Published on: September 17, 2016
Chronoculture, harnessing the circadian clock to improve crop yield and sustainability
Gareth Steed1, Dora Cano Ramirez1, Matthew A Hannah2
1Department of Plant Sciences, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge CB2 3EA, UK.
Abstract:
Human health is dependent on a plentiful and nutritious supply of food, primarily derived from crop plants. Rhythmic supply of light as a result of the day and night cycle led to the evolution of circadian clocks that modulate most plant physiology, photosynthesis, metabolism, and development. To regulate crop traits and adaptation, breeders have indirectly selected for variation at circadian genes. The pervasive impact of the circadian system on crops suggests that future food production might be improved by modifying circadian rhythms, engineering the timing of transgene expression, and applying agricultural treatments at the most effective time of day. We describe the applied research required to take advantage of circadian biology in agriculture to increase production and reduce inputs.
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