Researchers Pinpoint Potato Gene for Root Growth and Drought Tolerance

Good root systems are vital in plant growth. In rice, a gene called OsDRO1 helps control root development. Scientists from Yunnan Agricultural University and partners wanted to know if a similar gene in potatoes, called StDRO2, also plays a similar role in root system architecture. The results of their study are released in the Horticultural Plant Journal.

Through CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing, the research team developed potatoes with a mutated StDRO2 gene. This led to potato plants with longer roots, taller plant height, and heavier tubers, especially under drought conditions. These changes were linked to the plant hormone auxin. The mutation transformed the transportation of auxin in the roots, improving root growth and drought tolerance.

Based on the results, the research team suggests that StDRO2 is a key gene for root growth and drought tolerance in potatoes, and can help develop new ways of improving potato crops.

Know more about this study in the Horticultural Plant Journal.

https://www.isaaa.org/kc/cropbiotechupdate/article/default.asp?ID=20640