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Updated: Jan 9, 2026

A Rapid In Vivo Bioassay for Developmentally Active Enhancers
Developmental regulators and additives in promoting genetic transformation and genome editing efficiency
Yi-Xuan Niu1, Qing-Yang Wu1, Shu-Ning Ren1
1State Key Laboratory of Tree Genetics and Breeding, School of Biological Sciences and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing, 100083, PR China.
Abstract:
Efficient gene delivery systems are essential for improving plants. However, fewer than 0.1 % of higher plant species are amenable to genetic transformation or genome editing. Developmental regulators (DRs), including key transcription factors and signaling proteins, reprogram plant cells to acquire totipotency and regenerative competence. This mechanism offers a promising strategy to overcome the extremely low genetic transformation efficiency observed in most recalcitrant plant species. Recent studies have demonstrated that these regulators substantially enhance genetic transformation and regeneration efficiency, often in combination with exogenous additives such as small peptides and chemical compounds. This review systematically summarizes the molecular mechanisms and applications of developmental regulators, along with both exogenous and endogenous additives, in enhancing plant genetic transformation efficiency. Finally, we offer perspectives on utilizing the molecular functions of developmental regulatory factors to advance genetic transformation technologies and ultimately improve the yield and quality of agricultural and forestry crops.
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