Utilizing mads-box SOC1 gene for enhancing maize grain yield
This research explores the use of the MADS-box SOC1 gene to boost maize grain yield. By creating transgenic inbred lines, new high-yield corn hybrids can be developed. The technology is at TRL 5, with further validation planned through field trials.
Overview
This innovative approach leverages the constitutive expression of the MADS-box SOC1 gene to enhance maize grain yield. By focusing on the development of transgenic inbred lines, this research aims to create new corn hybrids with significantly improved yields. The SOC1 gene, known for its role in plant development, is used in either its full-length form or through the KIC domain from a blueberry variant, demonstrating promising results in preliminary generations.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- Development of transgenic maize lines overexpressing the SOC1 gene or its derivatives
- Use of full-length maize SOC1 gene or the KIC domain of a blueberry SOC1 gene
- Enhanced grain yield observed in backcross generations (BC1 and BC2)
- Collaboration with Cortiva to utilize related gene zmm28 for further validation
Technology readiness level
This technology is currently at TRL 5, indicating that it has been validated in a relevant environment. The next steps involve generating homozygous transgenic lines and conducting field trials in collaboration with Cortiva to assess the performance of the new hybrids.
About Michigan State University
Michigan State University is a major public land‑grant research university with a comprehensive academic portfolio and a large research enterprise. Industry partners engage through an on‑campus U.S. Department of Energy national user facility and shared core laboratories with user access. The university provides a chemical process scale‑up pilot plant on Michigan’s lakeshore, a research and technology park, and a Grand Rapids health innovation campus linking researchers with clinical partners. A statewide extension network supports field deployment and workforce training across Michigan’s manufacturing corridor. Research is backed by competitive federal funding from NSF, NIH, DOE, USDA, and DoD, while dedicated tech transfer and corporate engagement teams—supported by an affiliated research foundation—accelerate IP, licensing, startups, and sponsored research.
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