Breakthrough Discovery: C4-Like Vein Pattern Found in Short-Grain Rice
Scientists have recently discovered a new vein pattern in rice that could help boost crop yields. This vein pattern, known as “C4-like”, could be the answer to increasing a rice plant’s photosynthesis, and thus its yield, by up to 40% in some varieties. This discovery could revolutionize the way we grow rice and benefit millions of smallholder farmers around the world. This new vein pattern was discovered by a team of researchers at the University of Tokyo who identified the key genetic mechanism that controls the development of the veins in rice. The team then used this knowledge to manipulate the veins in a way that mimicked the C4 photosynthesis of other crops, like maize and sugarcane. The results of the study are very promising and could significantly increase the amount of food available to people globally.
source: Phys.org