Savants Develop Rice Strain That Battles Salinity

One consequence of rising global temperatures is the intrusion of saltwater, prompting researchers to explore engineering crops that can withstand such stress.

Researchers collaborated with the High Agricultural Technology Research Institute in Vietnam to "overexpress" the EPF1 gene in 72 varieties of traditional rice, without including genes from other organisms.

According to a report by Mike Taylor for The Cool Down, a January 2023 study by the University of Sheffield Institute for Sustainable Food found that reducing the number of stomata in rice enhances its salt resistance.

Stomata regulate the uptake of carbon dioxide and water loss for rice, a crucial crop that accounts for 20% of human calories and requires 40% of worldwide irrigation.

Researchers collaborated with the High Agricultural Technology Research Institute in Vietnam to "overexpress" the EPF1 gene in 72 varieties of traditional rice, without including genes from other organisms.

Vietnam, where seawater interference is making rice cultivation challenging, is particularly affected.

Lead author Robert Caine highlighted that ensuring rice survival in harsher conditions caused by climate change is vital for feeding a growing population projected to reach 10 billion in 60 years.

“This research is more about proof of concept at this stage," said Caine. "We (as well as others) are moving towards gene editing technology, which will enable researchers to alter crops without leaving any foreign DNA in the plant by the time the process is completed."

WEEKLY FEATURE : Jose Mari Chan And The Christmas Anthem