Chinese scientists have unveiled a groundbreaking gene-editing method to create shorter, sturdier corn plants, potentially revolutionizing agricultural productivity. Published in the Plant Biotechnology Journal, the innovation targets global food security challenges by enabling high-density farming of the world's most cultivated cereal crop.
Why It Matters
With corn yields plateauing due to limited genetic diversity, the discovery addresses a critical bottleneck: taller plants are prone to collapsing in dense fields. By editing the Br2 gene, researchers from the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anhui Agricultural University, and South China Agricultural University developed compact hybrids that maintained robust growth across 28 test varieties.
The Science Behind Compact Corn
Using CRISPR-like precision, the team designed a 'molecular scissors' system to disable the Br2 gene. A novel haploid inducer technique then accelerated breeding cycles, producing stable dwarf lines in two generations—cutting development time by up to 50% compared to traditional methods. Field tests showed edited plants were 20-30% shorter while retaining yield potential.
"This isn't just lab science—it's a toolkit to future-proof agriculture against climate stressors," said lead researcher Wang Baobao.
Global Implications
As climate change intensifies, drought-resistant dwarf crops could help farmers worldwide maximize land use. The study aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goal 2 (Zero Hunger), offering a scalable solution as the global population approaches 10 billion by 2050.
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China develops gene-editing method to reduce corn plant height
cgtn.com
