My project seeks to identify how global change affects rice yield, specifically how rice seed shape responds to heat stress. Seed shape is a major determinant of yield due to its strong correlation with seed number, set, and filling. Our lab previously identified an A/G SNP associated with differences in rice seed shape. This SNP is linked with three genes that regulate yield. Rice with the “A" SNP had rounder seeds, while plants with the “G” SNP had slender seeds. I am conducting an expressional assessment of the three candidate rice seed shape genes. I explore how expression levels of these genes vary between the two genotypes in normal growth conditions and under heat stress. 

Experimentally, this involves RNA isolation, cDNA synthesis, primer validation, and qPCR. I expect that GG genotype rice will have different expression levels of the three candidate genes when compared to AA genotype rice. In addition, both genotypes may have different gene expression under heat stress compared to normal growth conditions, since previous experiments indicate seed shape correlates differently with yield traits under heat stress.  

Findings from this project will contribute to the annotation of the rice genome and support food security. If differences in candidate gene expression correspond with variation in seed shape, other scientists can use this in their own studies. Greater information on seed traits is particularly useful to those growing rice. They could choose rice with genotypes that convey larger seeds or heat resistance, helping them maintain crop yields and food security.