Locating Genetic Factors Involved in Seed Size and Seed Number

Researchers from University of Bath studied the two main traits in seeds, seed size and seed number, which are necessary for improving crop yields. Typically, a small seed size will yield high seed number while a large seed size will then give off small seed number. This scenario occurs due to trade-offs associated with the two traits. With this, the researchers observed the genetic basis of natural variation in seed size and number to identify the factors associated with them.

A multiparent advanced generation intercross (MAGIC) lines of Arabidopsis thaliana plant was used. With this plant lines, the precise location of gene chromosomes associated with seed size and number can be identified. A QTL mapping was conducted on the seeds and showed that there is a non-overlapping QTL between seed size and seed number. This result implies that the genetic factors involve with the two seed traits are located differently in the genome. It is then possible to independently control seed size and seed number. An improvement in one trait will not affect the other trait.

Further details of the study can be read at: http://www.bath.ac.uk/news/2014/12/12/seed-size-2/ and http://www.genetics.org/content/198/4/1751.full.pdf.