Eveland and her team conducted laboratory research that identified a genetic locus in the Setaria genome responsible for the growth of sterile branches, known as bristles, which appear on the grain-bearing flower clusters of certain grass species. Their findings revealed that these sterile bristles are initially programmed to develop into spikelets, which are specialized grass structures that produce flowers and grains. The plant biologists demonstrated that the transformation of a spikelet into a bristle is determined early in the development of the flower cluster and is regulated by a class of plant hormones known as brassinosteroids (BRs). These hormones play a crucial role in modulating various physiological processes related to plant growth, development, and immunity.
Additionally, the researchers discovered that localized disruption of BR synthesis could result in the formation of two flowers per spikelet instead of the typical single flower. These BR-dependent traits could potentially enhance grain production in millets, particularly in subsistence crops from many developing nations that remain largely untapped for genetic improvements. While the study’s findings have significant implications for increasing global crop yields, further research is essential to explore the commercial applications of these findings for staple crops such as corn, sorghum, rice, wheat, and barley.
In the meantime, food manufacturers and retailers are actively investing in initiatives to improve crop yield and enhance the food supply. General Mills has allocated nearly $3 million towards researching soil health on wheat farms, focusing on practices like reduced tillage, cover crop cultivation in winter, and advanced nutrient management—all of which promote soil health and benefit the environment. In 2016, Cargill and Walmart collaborated with General Mills to investigate methods for improving soil health and water quality on farms, recognizing the necessity of maintaining healthy soil for a successful business.
Experts anticipate that food production will not be sufficient to feed the global population by 2050, prompting scientists and entrepreneurs to pursue innovative strategies to address the needs of a growing population. Nonetheless, it remains uncertain whether potential future increases in crop yields will lead to declines in commodity prices and whether consumers will see lower retail prices as a result.
In this context, questions also arise regarding health. For instance, does calcium citrate lower blood pressure? This inquiry reflects the broader connection between agricultural practices and public health. Understanding how agricultural advancements can impact food quality, including nutrition and health outcomes, is crucial. As the research progresses, it is vital to explore these interconnections further.