A NAC-EXPANSIN module enhances maize kernel size by controlling nucellus elimination.
Qin Sun1, Yunfu Li1, Dianming Gong1
1National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, Huazhong Agricultural University, 430070, Wuhan, Hubei, China.
Nature Communications
|September 29, 2022
Summary
Researchers identified a key gene, ZmEXPB15, that controls maize kernel size and weight by regulating maternal tissue elimination. This discovery offers a new strategy for improving maize breeding and yield.
Area of Science:
- Plant biology
- Genetics
- Agricultural science
Background:
- Maize kernel development involves early endosperm growth and maternal nucellar tissue elimination.
- The molecular mechanisms governing nucellus elimination and its impact on kernel development are not well understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and characterize genes controlling maize kernel size and weight.
- To elucidate the role of ZmEXPB15 and associated transcription factors in nucellus elimination and kernel development.
- To explore the potential of ZmEXPB15 for improving maize breeding.
Main Methods:
- Quantitative trait locus (QTL) analysis to identify ZmEXPB15.
- Gene expression analysis to determine ZmEXPB15 localization and function.
- Overexpression studies in maize to assess ZmEXPB15 impact on kernel weight.
- Genetic analysis to investigate TF-gene interactions.
Main Results:
- A major QTL for maize kernel size and weight was identified, encoding the EXPANSIN gene ZmEXPB15.
- ZmEXPB15 is specifically expressed in the nucellus and promotes kernel size and weight by enhancing nucellus elimination.
- Two nucellus-enriched transcription factors, ZmNAC11 and ZmNAC29, were found to activate ZmEXPB15 expression, thereby promoting kernel development.
- Overexpression of ZmEXPB15 in hybrids led to increased kernel weight, highlighting its breeding potential.
Conclusions:
- A novel pathway involving ZmEXPB15, ZmNAC11, and ZmNAC29 regulates maternal nucellus elimination and early endosperm development in maize.
- This pathway provides a target for improving maize kernel weight and yield through breeding strategies.
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