Single Dominant Gene Controls Chlorophyll Content in Rice

Past studies have shown that chlorophyll (Chl) content is positively correlated with photosynthetic rate and plant productivity. Thus, an approach that plant breeders has been considering is to increase the Chl content in crops to effect increase in biomass production and yield.

Recent research by a group of researchers at the Chongqing University revealed information that may be useful in understanding the control of Chl trait in rice. The Chinese researchers have analyzed the identified a single dominant gene, called Gc, that controls Chl content in rice. This observation is contrary to previous belief that the Chl content is a polygenic character and is controlled by many genes.

 Introgression of the Gc gene from the rice mutant 'Chongqing 2' to the cultivar 'Zhenshan 97B' was performed by the researchers. The leaves of the progenies were determined to be ‘dark green’ and have 100% increase in Chl. The leaf coloration follows that of the 'Chongqing 2' parent. The researchers have also observed that the photosynthetic rate, biomass, and grain yield of the progenies also increased by 20%, 17% and 16%, respectively.

 The complete article to be published in the Journal of Plant Physiology can be accessed by subscribers at http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.jplph.2006.11.006.