Large increases in biomass and seed production in oilseed crops can be achieved by replacing endogenous starch branching enzymes with those from cereal crops such as maize.
About
Technology Large increases in biomass and seed production in oilseed crops can be achieved by replacing endogenous starch branching enzymes with those from cereal crops such as maize. Methodology Endogenous starch branching enzymes were substituted with maize starch branching enzymes ZmSBEI of ZmSBEIIb. Altered starch metabolism results in increased biomass, 100%+ increase in oilseed production and oil production per plant, with no decrease in oil quality. Progress To date, results have been demonstrated in Arabidopsis thaliana, and the trait is stable through generations. Research to expand proof of concept in other crop species is underway.