Project Database

"This proposal addresses the critical issue of low nitrogen utilization efficiency (NUE) in rice, a major global crop, which leads to significant environmental pollution and economic waste, especially in Taiwan. Our overarching aim is to enhance the NUE of TN11, Taiwan‵s most popular rice cultivar, by integrating molecular genetics, AI, and gene editing approaches.
The project is structured into three major research themes. Theme 1 focuses on precisely gene-editing rice nitrate transporters to improve nitrate uptake and transport. This includes utilizing hyperactive transporters like OsNPF6.5id-L395P, and employing AI for mutation prediction to bypass current GMO restrictions. Theme 2 leverages the inherent NUE differences between japonica and indica rice, as well as the NUE differences between TNG71 and TN11. It aims to identify key genes and mechanisms, such as NPF4.10, responsible for superior NUE traits, and to develop molecular markers for breeding these enhanced traits into TN11. Theme 3 explores the high-tiller, high-NUE mutant AZ358. This involves identifying the genetic basis of its improved performance and introgressing this valuable trait into TN11 through breeding.
Collectively, this research seeks to develop nitrogen-efficient TN11 cultivars, reducing the need for chemical fertilizers, mitigating environmental damage, and promoting sustainable agriculture in Taiwan and beyond.