An ethylene biosynthesis enzyme controls quantitative variation in maize ear length and kernel yield

Qiang Ning, Yinan Jian, Yanfang Du, Yunfu Li, Xiaomeng Shen, Haitao Jia, Ran Zhao, Jimin Zhan, Fang Yang, David Jackson (), Lei Liu () and Zuxin Zhang ()
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Qiang Ning: Huazhong Agricultural University
Yinan Jian: Huazhong Agricultural University
Yanfang Du: Huazhong Agricultural University
Yunfu Li: Huazhong Agricultural University
Xiaomeng Shen: Huazhong Agricultural University
Haitao Jia: Huazhong Agricultural University
Ran Zhao: Huazhong Agricultural University
Jimin Zhan: Huazhong Agricultural University
Fang Yang: Huazhong Agricultural University
David Jackson: Huazhong Agricultural University
Lei Liu: Huazhong Agricultural University
Zuxin Zhang: Huazhong Agricultural University

Nature Communications, 2021, vol. 12, issue 1, 1-10

Abstract: Abstract Maize ear size and kernel number differ among lines, however, little is known about the molecular basis of ear length and its impact on kernel number. Here, we characterize a quantitative trait locus, qEL7, to identify a maize gene controlling ear length, flower number and fertility. qEL7 encodes 1-aminocyclopropane-1- carboxylate oxidase2 (ACO2), a gene that functions in the final step of ethylene biosynthesis and is expressed in specific domains in developing inflorescences. Confirmation of qEL7 by gene editing of ZmACO2 leads to a reduction in ethylene production in developing ears, and promotes meristem and flower development, resulting in a ~13.4% increase in grain yield per ear in hybrids lines. Our findings suggest that ethylene serves as a key signal in inflorescence development, affecting spikelet number, floral fertility, ear length and kernel number, and also provide a tool to improve grain productivity by optimizing ethylene levels in maize or in other cereals.

Date: 2021
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DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-26123-z

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