Single gene switch makes birch trees grow bigger, faster
Yue L, Wang X, Zheng Z
Crispr
The next fast-growing birch or poplar variety planted for reforestation or timber may owe its speed to this exact gene, now identified as a genetic dial researchers can turn up or down.
Researchers found a gene in white birch called BpCYCD3;1 that controls how fast plant cells divide and multiply. When they boosted this gene's activity, the trees grew bigger leaves and more overall mass; when they deleted it using CRISPR gene editing, the trees grew smaller and slower. It works by kicking off a chain reaction of other genes that push cells through their division cycle, essentially acting as a growth throttle.
Key Findings
Overexpressing BpCYCD3;1 increased leaf expansion, biomass, cell density, and epidermal cell number in birch
CRISPR/Cas9 knockout of the gene reduced vegetative growth
BpCYCD3;1 activates the CDKA-RBR-E2F molecular pathway, upregulating G1/S transition and DNA replication genes
chevron_right Technical Summary
Scientists found a gene in birch trees that acts like an accelerator pedal for growth: turning it up made leaves bigger and trees produce more biomass, while switching it off stunted growth. This gives tree breeders a genetic lever to speed up growth for wood, paper, or reforestation.
Abstract Preview
Original paper
BpCYCD3;1 regulates organ growth by activating the cell cycle module in white birch.
Cyclin D proteins are key regulators of cell cycle progression and plant growth. Here, we identified BpCYCD3;1, a CYCD3 family member in birch, and investigated its function. Phylogenetic and seque...
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