The Wang laboratory focuses on model crops such as tomato and maize for plant science research, utilizing an interdisciplinary approach that integrates cytogenetics, molecular biology, biochemistry, genomics, and bioinformatics. Our research revolves around the themes of meiotic recombination, clonal gametes production, chromosome manipulation, and polyploid genome design. Our ultimate goal is to understand the underlying mechanisms of apomixis and explore its potential applications in agriculture. Meanwhile, the long-term aim is to develop efficient methods for creating hybrid seeds with fixed heterosis and to create superior polyploid seed resources, thereby providing theoretical support and technical foundations for heterosis fixation and polyploid breeding in plants.
The research mainly focuses on the fields of sexual reproduction and asexual reproduction (synthetic apomixis) in plants, specifically as follows:
1. Plant sexual reproduction (Meiotic recombination)
Meiotic recombination is a central process in plant sexual reproduction and a fundamental principle for genetic breeding. Through homologous chromosome pairing, it reshuffles parental genetic material, boosting genetic diversity in offspring. This process is a driving force for species evolution and adaptation to environmental changes. However, meiotic recombination is a double-edged sword, as it may break beneficial gene linkages, resulting in novel unfavorable combinations (linkage drags) that hinder the stable inheritance of desirable traits.
To precisely control meiotic recombination, we employ a combination of advanced technologies (such as gene editing, high-throughput sequencing, and bioinformatics) to identify regulatory factors that play a crucial role in this process. Based on a clear understanding of their functions, we aim to (1) eliminate meiotic recombination via gene editing techniques, creating novel germplasm resources for heterosis fixation and (2) regulate key factors to increase the recombination frequency in specific chromosomal regions, facilitating the rapid aggregation of desirable genes and providing more targeted materials for practical breeding.
2. Heterosis fixation (Synthetic apomixis)
Commercial hybrid seeds are highly valued for their strong heterosis, significantly enhancing crop yield, quality, and resistance to environmental stress. However, the traditional hybrid seed production process is labor-intensive, time-consuming, and costly, which limits the widespread use of hybrid seeds.
Our research aims to transform hybrid crops from sexual reproduction to apomictic reproduction, enabling the direct production of clonal hybrid seeds. This process would reliably pass heterosis onto the next generation. By studying model plants and important crops, we aim to uncover the complex molecular mechanisms and genetic regulatory networks behind apomixis. Using multiple advanced technologies, we will identify crucial genes and regulatory elements associated with apomixis and understand their roles in meiosis, embryo development, and seed formation. Furthermore, we try to explore the immense potential applications of apomixis in agriculture by introducing apomictic traits into superior hybrid varieties using genetic engineering, ultimately simplifying hybrid seed production, reducing costs, and promoting efficient agricultural development.
3. Polyploid genome design and polyploid breeding
Polyploid plants, in contrast to their diploid counterparts, typically demonstrate enhanced resistance to environmental stresses, more robust growth vigor, and superior quality characteristics. These inherent advantages endow polyploid plants with substantial potential for crop improvement, making them a focal point of agricultural research and development.
Our research endeavors to leverage state-of-the-art biotechnological strategies, including gene editing and chromosome engineering, to precisely design and manipulate plant genomes. This precise genomic engineering approach enables the strategic combination and stacking of diverse genomes, thereby creating novel genetic architectures with desired traits.
Furthermore, by integrating chromosome-related technologies, such as chromosome doubling and fragment introduction, we are committed to further optimizing the genome structure of polyploids. The optimization of the genome structure is expected to streamline the process of directed modification of plant genetic traits. This, in turn, will provide a solid and reliable technical foundation for the development of high-yield, high-quality, and stress-resistant polyploid seed resources. Through these concerted efforts, we aim to fully unlock the potential of polyploidy in crop breeding, contributing to the sustainable development of agriculture by providing more resilient and productive crop varieties.
4. Haploid induction and double haploid breeding
In the realm of conventional plant breeding, the generation of homozygous inbred lines necessitates multiple generations (ranging from 6 to 8 generations) of self-pollination and subsequent selection procedures. This conventional approach is characterized by its high labor-intensity and resource- intensity, demanding substantial amounts of manpower, time, and various resources.
The emergence of haploid induction and double haploid breeding technologies has brought about a revolutionary change. These innovative techniques have significantly abbreviated the breeding cycles. Instead of the lengthy multi-generation process in conventional breeding, new varieties can now be developed within just 2 generations and greatly accelerate the pace of crop improvement. Our research is focused on the identification of novel genes and regulatory factors that play crucial roles in the processes of haploid induction and chromosome doubling. By uncovering these key elements, the study aims to enhance both the efficiency and stability of haploid induction.
Through the reduction of seed production costs and the enhancement of breeding efficiency, these advanced technologies are designed to address the burgeoning demand for high-quality varieties in the market and in agricultural production. As a result, they are expected to drive the rapid development of the modern seed industry, contributing to more productive and sustainable agricultural practices.
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