Advances in Genetics and Breeding of Grain Shape in Rice

Qian Chen, Yuheng Zhu, Banpu Ruan () and Yanchun Yu
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Qian Chen: College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou 311121, China
Yuheng Zhu: College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou 311121, China
Banpu Ruan: College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou 311121, China
Yanchun Yu: College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou 311121, China

Agriculture, 2025, vol. 15, issue 18, 1-29

Abstract: Grain shape is a critical determinant of rice yield, quality, and market value. Recent advances in molecular biology, genomics, and systems biology have revealed a complex regulatory network governing grain development, integrating genetic loci, plant hormone signaling, transcriptional regulation, protein ubiquitination, epigenetic modifications, and environmental cues. This review summarizes key genetic components such as QTLs, transcription factors, and hormone pathways—including auxin, cytokinin, gibberellin, brassinosteroids, and abscisic acid—that influence seed size through regulation of cell division, expansion, and nutrient allocation. The roles of the ubiquitin–proteasome system, miRNAs, lncRNAs, and chromatin remodeling are also discussed, highlighting their importance in fine-tuning grain development. Furthermore, we examine environmental factors that impact grain filling and size, including temperature, light, and nutrient availability. We also explore cutting-edge breeding strategies such as gene editing, functional marker development, and wild germplasm utilization, along with the integration of multi-omics platforms like RiceAtlas to enable intelligent and ecological zone-specific precision breeding. Finally, challenges such as pleiotropy and non-additive gene interactions are discussed, and future directions are proposed to enhance grain shape improvement for yield stability and food security.

Keywords: rice; grain shape; hormone signaling; ubiquitin–proteasome system; precision breeding (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q1 Q10 Q11 Q12 Q13 Q14 Q15 Q16 Q17 Q18 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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