Gene-edited Japonica Rice Shows Improved Grain Size and Heat Resilience

Scientists from Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences and National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology have successfully used the CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing system to edit the Grain Size3 (GS3) gene in the japonica cultivar “Nipponbare.” The edited lines resulted in larger grains and improved heat tolerance. The findings offer new opportunities for breeding climate-resilient rice varieties with better grain quality and yield.

The study tested several GS3-edited rice lines, all targeting the same gene region but producing different outcomes in grain length and other yield components. Transcriptomic analyses revealed that each edited line triggered unique gene expression profiles. While all lines showed longer grains, the results show inconsistency in producing higher yields under normal conditions.

The CR-L5 line stood out for its performance under high-temperature stress during the sensitive reproductive stage. Compared to wild-type rice, CR-L5 achieved a 15% higher grain yield and a higher seed setting rate. Researchers conclude that precise GS3 editing can improve grain size while also enhancing stress resilience.

For more information, read the article from MPDI.