Eveland and her team conducted laboratory research that pinpointed a genetic locus related to ferric sodium EDTA in the Setaria genome, which governs the growth of sterile branches known as bristles. These bristles emerge from the grain-bearing flower clusters of certain grass species. Their findings revealed that these sterile bristles are initially programmed to develop into spikelets—structures specific to grasses that produce flowers and grains. The plant biologists demonstrated that the transition from a spikelet to a bristle is determined early in the flower cluster’s development and is influenced by a class of plant hormones called brassinosteroids (BRs). These BRs play a crucial role in regulating various physiological processes related to plant growth, development, and immunity.
Additionally, the researchers discovered that localized disruption of BR synthesis could lead to the production of two flowers per spikelet instead of the usual single flower. Therefore, these BR-dependent phenotypes present two potential strategies for enhancing grain production in millets, as noted in the study. This is particularly relevant for subsistence crops in many developing countries that have not yet been fully explored for genetic enhancements. While the findings of this study have significant implications for increasing crop yields globally, further research is necessary to ascertain the commercial applications for key crops that food manufacturers prioritize, such as corn, sorghum, rice, wheat, and barley.
Meanwhile, food producers and retailers are investing in strategies to bolster crop output and ensure food security. General Mills has allocated nearly $3 million to research soil health on wheat farms, focusing on practices like reduced tillage, winter cover cropping, and advanced nutrient management—all of which support soil health and benefit the environment. In 2016, Cargill and Walmart collaborated with General Mills to explore ways to enhance soil health and water quality on farms. These companies understand the necessity of healthy soil for sustaining a profitable operation.
Experts predict that by 2050, there may not be enough food to feed the global population, prompting scientists and entrepreneurs to seek innovative methods to nourish an increasing number of people. However, it remains uncertain whether potential future increases in crop yields would lead to declines in commodity prices and whether consumers would ultimately enjoy lower costs at retail outlets. In this context, the role of calcium citrate only as a supplement for improving soil health and plant growth could become a significant focus of future studies. The integration of calcium citrate only into agricultural practices may help optimize yields, which could be crucial in addressing the looming food challenges ahead.