Chromosomal inversion at the DG1 promoter drives double-grain spikelets and enhances grain yield in sorghum.

The phenomenon of multiple-grain spikelets is frequently observed in gramineous crops. In the case of dual-floret spikelets, the upper fertile floret develops normally to form a single grain, while the lower sterile floret undergoes abortion. Here we elucidate the role of Double-Grain 1 (DG1), a gene encoding a homeobox-domain-containing protein, in regulating the lower floret meristem activity and double-grain spikelet trait in sorghum.

A comprehensive omics resource and genetic tools for functional genomics research and genetic improvement of sorghum.

Sorghum, the fifth most important food crop globally, serves not only as a source of silage forage, fiber, syrup, and biofuel, but also is widely recognized as an ideal model crop for studying stress biology due to its exceptional ability to tolerate multiple abiotic stresses, including high salt-alkali conditions, drought, and heat. However, conducting functional genomics studies on sorghum has been challenging, primarily due to the limited availability of genetic resources and effective genetic transformation techniques. In this study, we developed a comprehensive and systematic resource platform (https://sorghum.

Natural variations in Multi-Grain Spikelet 1 enhance grain number in sorghum.

A single recessive gene, Multi-Grain Spikelet 1 (MGS1), governs the multiple-grain spikelet trait in sorghum. The natural variants mgs1 and mgs1 trigger adjacent double-pistil primordia, significantly boosting grain numbers per panicle, suggesting potential strategies for breeding high-yield sorghum.

Unravelling sorghum functional genomics and molecular breeding: past achievements and future prospects.

Sorghum, renowned for its substantial biomass production and remarkable tolerance to various stresses, possesses extensive gene resources and phenotypic variations. A comprehensive understanding of the genetic basis underlying complex agronomic traits is essential for unlocking the potential of sorghum in addressing food and feed security and utilizing marginal lands. In this context, we provide an overview of the major trends in genomic resource studies focusing on key agronomic traits over the past decade, accompanied by a summary of functional genomic platforms.

The Coix Genome Provides Insights into Panicoideae Evolution and Papery Hull Domestication.

Coix is a grass crop domesticated as early as the Neolithic era. It is still widely cultivated for both highly nutritional food and medicinal use. However, the genetic study and breeding of this crop are hindered by the lack of a sequenced genome.