Discovery of SOD5 as a novel regulator of nitrogen‐use efficiency and grain yield via altering auxin level

• DOI: 10.1111/nph.70038
• Publication Date: 2025-03-12T10:09:28Z
• Authors: Siyu Zhang; Yunzhi Huang; Zhe Ji; Yongzhi Fang; Yanan Tian; Chengbo Shen; Yaojun Qin; Menghan Huang; Shuming Kang; Shunqi Li; Xuan Liu; Ying Yu; Zulong Mo; Bingyu Jiang; Yafeng Ye; Shan Li
• Keywords: MYB

Auxin has emerged as a crucial regulator of plant nitrogen (N)-use efficiency (NUE) through indirect effects on growth and development direct regulation N metabolism-related genes. We previously reported DULL NITROGEN RESPONSE1 (DNR1) an amino transferase that inhibits auxin accumulation negatively regulates rice (Oryza sativa) NUE grain yield. However, the identities molecular regulators acting upstream DNR1 await exploration. Our current work identifies SUPPRESSOR OF ON CHROMOSOME 5 (SOD5) from suppressor mutant. SOD5 encodes v-myb avian myeloblastosis viral oncogene homolog (MYB) transcription factor directly binds to promoter, activating its expression further repressing accumulation. Knocking out significantly increases yield, especially under low conditions. Therefore, targeting offers promising strategy for enhancing crop performance, supporting crops better suited sustainable agriculture.