Genes Controlling Barrier Formation in Roots

Abstract

Researchers at the University of California, Davis have developed advancements in understanding exodermal differentiation in plant roots highlighting the role of two transcription factors in plant adaptation and survival.

Full Description

This invention covers edited plants that have increased root suberiation and therefore greater drought tolerance and root pathogen resistance than control plants. The claimed plants can be achieved through deletion-only edits. The researchers have identified two transcription factors that restrict the deposition of the polar lignin cap to the exodermis and help in regulating the polarity of this cap, respectively.

Applications

• Agriculture: Enhancing crop resilience to extreme conditions. 
• Environmental Science: Promoting carbon sequestration in soil. 
• Plant Breeding: Development of drought and salt-tolerant crop varieties. 
• Biotechnology: Genetic modification of plants for improved performance.

Features/Benefits

• Offers a deeper understanding of plant biology and root structure. 
• Helps breeding plants for drought and salt tolerance. 
• Improves plant survival by controlling ion homeostasis and growth. 
• Potential application in carbon sequestration. 
• Unveils the process of exodermal differentiation in plants. 
• Identifies key transcription factors involved in the regulation of lignin cap deposition. 
• Contributes to solving issues related to plant adaptation in unfavorable environmental conditions.

Patent Status

Patent Pending