A framework for improving wheat spike development and yield based on the master regulatory TOR and SnRK gene systems

Abstract

The low rates of yield gain in wheat breeding programs create an ominous situation for the world. Amongst the reasons for this low rate are issues manifested in spike development that result in too few spikelets, fertile florets and therefore grains being produced. Phases in spike development are particularly sensitive to stresses of various kinds and origins and these are partly responsible for the deficiencies in grain production and slow rates of gain in yield. The diversity of developmental processes, stresses and the large numbers of genes involved make it particularly difficult to prioritise approaches in breeding programs without an overarching, mechanistic framework. Such a framework, introduced here, is provided around the master regulator TOR and SnRK protein kinase complexes and their control by trehalose-6-phosphate and other molecules. Being master regulators of the balance between growth and growth inhibition under stress, these provide genetic targets for creating breakthroughs in yield enhancement. Examples of potential targets and experimental approaches are described.