Gene-edited Rice Shows Resistance to Aging

Nanjing Agricultural University scientists in China developed rice varieties that are more resistant to aging and can be stored for longer periods. Their findings are published in Molecular Breeding.

Lipoxygenase (LOX) enzyme plays a crucial role in rice seed aging and quality decline. Using CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing technology, the researchers successfully knocked out the OsLOX1 gene from rice. The gene-edited rice exhibited slower deterioration, better seed viability, and longer storage life. Further analysis showed OsLOX1 gene affected other genes involved in lipid metabolism and antioxidant pathways, which likely contribute to seed aging.

This breakthrough has practical implications for agricultural production and food security.

Read more in Molecular Breeding.

See https://www.isaaa.org/kc/cropbiotechupdate/ged/article/default.asp?ID=21044