SiZAT12 Knockout Improves Drought Tolerance in Foxtail Millet
February 4, 2026| |
Researchers from Shanxi Agricultural University in China conducted a study to explore how a gene knockout in foxtail millet helps the plant become more resilient to extreme drought. Their findings are discussed in the latest issue of Plant Physiology and Biochemistry.
Foxtail millet (Setaria italica L.) is one of the oldest domesticated food crops and is known as a vital cereal crop in arid and semi-arid regions. It is highly nutritious because of the high levels of protein, fat, vitamins, and amino acids. When the plants are exposed to drought conditions, growth is impacted by reduced photosynthetic capacity, leading to lower crop yields.
To address the impact of drought in foxtail millet, the researchers focused on a gene called SiZAT12. When a millet plant is exposed to drought, this gene's activity is activated. However, it was found that this particular gene limits foxtail millet's resilience. Using CRISPR, they knocked out SiZAT12, and this resulted in better drought tolerance without a yield penalty. Furthermore, the edited plants also exhibited enhanced cold tolerance and germination rate under salt stress.
Read the research article in Plant Physiology and Biochemistry.
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