MSU Technologies

Drought Tolerance Gene

Executive Summary

Many current applications to control drought tolerance in plants are focusing on the manipulation of gene regulation. Researchers at MSU have discovered that over-expression of a gene that encodes a major regulator of plant cellular signaling processes creates a high level of drought tolerance. The over-expressing plants maintain leaf function under drought stress, counteracting the cessation in growth which is the normal response in the unmodified plant. Thereby plant survival and growth is improved under drought conditions. Over-expression of this signal mediation gene does not have apparent negative side-effects under water-replete conditions in the greenhouse, so unstressed plants appear to grow normally.

Description of Technology

Over-expression of a major regulator of plant cellular signaling process induces drought tolerance without negative effects under water-replete conditions. Plant survival is improved under drought conditions, while preserving yield under normal conditions.

Key Benefits