Rice gene for enhanced arbuscular mycorrhizal symbiosis and nutrient acquisition
Identification of a rice gene regulating arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) symbiosis, mapped on chromosome 6, that enhances nutrient acquisition efficiency. This discovery offers breeding targets to maintain rice yield with reduced chemical fertilizer input, supporting sustainable agriculture.
Overview
This research targets the identification and functional characterization of a rice gene that regulates arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) symbiosis, the mutually beneficial relationship between rice roots and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF). The goal is to leverage natural genetic variation between wild rice (Oryza rufipogon) and cultivated rice to improve nutrient acquisition and use efficiency. By isolating elite allelic variants, the research aims to provide breeders with new strategies to maintain or increase rice yields while minimizing dependence on chemical fertilizers, supporting more sustainable agricultural production systems.
Technical specifications
- Genetic basis: Wild rice (Oryza rufipogon, accession S18) exhibits significantly higher AMF colonization compared to cultivated rice (E251), indicating natural genetic variation controlling symbiosis efficiency.
- Mapping population: A set of recombinant inbred lines (RILs) and an F2 population were constructed from the cross between high- and low-colonization parents to identify the responsible gene.
- Gene localization: Map-based cloning narrowed the target gene to a 2.1 cM region on chromosome 6 of the rice genome.
- Functional validation: Transgenic technology will be used to confirm gene function and elucidate the molecular mechanism underlying the symbiotic interaction between AMF and rice.
- Breeding application: Elite allelic variation will be applied to improve nutrient uptake efficiency in cultivated rice breeding programs.
Technology readiness level
The research is at an early-to-mid stage of development. The gene has been mapped to a defined chromosomal region using recombinant inbred lines and map-based cloning. Future work will focus on cloning the full gene, characterizing its function through transgenic validation, and investigating the molecular mechanisms of AM symbiosis. The projected timeline for completion is approximately five years. Upon completion, the identified gene and favorable alleles are expected to serve as breeding targets for developing rice varieties with improved nutrient use efficiency.
About South China Agricultural University
South China Agricultural University is a comprehensive public agricultural university in Guangzhou serving a large student and faculty community and spanning discovery through application. Industry engages through co-located experimental farms and greenhouses, accessible subtropical field sites, and on-campus veterinary clinical facilities. A research and technology park and strong links with regional growers and manufacturers in the Greater Bay Area support pilots, workforce pipelines, and rapid scale-up. Research is supported by competitive national and provincial funding in China, including foundation and ministry programs. A dedicated technology transfer office provides IP management, licensing, and startup incubation.
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