DRO1 related genes influence lateral root orientation and growth in Arabidopsis and Prunus species

US10513708B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• The United States of America, as represented by the Secretary of Agriculture · US

Inventors

• Christopher D. Dardick · Kearneysville, US
• Jessica M. Guseman · Charles Town, US
• Courtney A. Hollender · Ballenger Creek, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Sep 13, 2017
• Grant date: Dec 24, 2019
• Expiry date: Sep 19, 2037

Classification

• Technology area (CPC Y): Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
• CPC primary: Y02A40/146
• WIPO field: Biotechnology
• WIPO sector: Chemistry

Abstract

Root orientation, or angle, is an important component of root architecture and depth of the root system. We have determined that DRO1 and DRO1-related genes are present across diverse plant phyla and fall within the IGT gene family. DRO1, present in both Arabidopsis and peach, displayed root specific expression patterns. AtDRO1 is predominantly expressed in both the root vasculature and root tips in a distinct developmental pattern. Mutation of AtDRO1 led to more horizontal lateral root angles; over-expression of AtDRO1 under a constitutive promoter reduced lateral root angles and resulted in shoot phenotypes including upward leaf curling, shortened siliques, and narrow lateral branch angles. Over-expression of PpeDRO1 in plum (Prunus domestica) led to deeper rooting phenotypes. These data establish that DRO1-related genes serve a role in altering root architecture, providing a method for drought avoidance.