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An ethylene biosynthesis enzyme controls quantitative variation in maize ear length and kernel yield

Author

Listed:
  • Qiang Ning

    (Huazhong Agricultural University)

  • Yinan Jian

    (Huazhong Agricultural University)

  • Yanfang Du

    (Huazhong Agricultural University)

  • Yunfu Li

    (Huazhong Agricultural University)

  • Xiaomeng Shen

    (Huazhong Agricultural University)

  • Haitao Jia

    (Huazhong Agricultural University)

  • Ran Zhao

    (Huazhong Agricultural University)

  • Jimin Zhan

    (Huazhong Agricultural University)

  • Fang Yang

    (Huazhong Agricultural University)

  • David Jackson

    (Huazhong Agricultural University
    Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor)

  • Lei Liu

    (Huazhong Agricultural University
    Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor)

  • Zuxin Zhang

    (Huazhong Agricultural University)

Abstract

Maize ear size and kernel number differ among lines, however, little is known about the molecular basis of ear length and its impact on kernel number. Here, we characterize a quantitative trait locus, qEL7, to identify a maize gene controlling ear length, flower number and fertility. qEL7 encodes 1-aminocyclopropane-1- carboxylate oxidase2 (ACO2), a gene that functions in the final step of ethylene biosynthesis and is expressed in specific domains in developing inflorescences. Confirmation of qEL7 by gene editing of ZmACO2 leads to a reduction in ethylene production in developing ears, and promotes meristem and flower development, resulting in a ~13.4% increase in grain yield per ear in hybrids lines. Our findings suggest that ethylene serves as a key signal in inflorescence development, affecting spikelet number, floral fertility, ear length and kernel number, and also provide a tool to improve grain productivity by optimizing ethylene levels in maize or in other cereals.

Suggested Citation

  • Qiang Ning & Yinan Jian & Yanfang Du & Yunfu Li & Xiaomeng Shen & Haitao Jia & Ran Zhao & Jimin Zhan & Fang Yang & David Jackson & Lei Liu & Zuxin Zhang, 2021. "An ethylene biosynthesis enzyme controls quantitative variation in maize ear length and kernel yield," Nature Communications, Nature, vol. 12(1), pages 1-10, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:natcom:v:12:y:2021:i:1:d:10.1038_s41467-021-26123-z
    DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-26123-z
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