Title : Exploring rooting systems of Ri-naturally transformed Oilseed rape (Brassica napus)
Abstract:
Natural transformation involves the genetic modification of plants using wild strains of e.g. Rhizobium rhizogenes. This technique has emerged as a valuable biotechnological breeding method through the insertion of the root-inducing (Ri) genes, which can introduce desirable traits in horticulturally and agriculturally relevant species e.g. plant compact growth, ethylene tolerance and drought resistance. Notably, the insertion of Ri genes via this method is exempt from GMO legislation in several countries, including the European Union and Japan. In this study, the aim is to compare two lines of naturally transformed oilseed rape (A11 and B3). The focus is to study these lines under semi-field conditions to assess morphological changes in both above- and below-ground traits. The hypothesis is that the Ri lines have a shift in biomass allocation favoring root development. The Ri lines exhibited altered leaf number, plant height, and green canopy fraction (Canopeo app) compared to WT. Furthermore, significant differences were observed in flowering time and floral abundance, with WT plants flowering, on average, one week earlier and producing more flowers than A11 and B3. These findings indicate a potential link between Ri gene presence and the regulation of the reproductive phase in oilseed rape.
