THE ECOLOGICAL FUNCTIONS OF THE PHYTOCHROME FAMILY. CLUES TO A TRANSGENIC PROGRAMME OF CROP IMPROVEMENT

1 November 1992

journal article
Published by Wiley in Photochemistry and Photobiology

Vol. 56 (5) , 815-822
https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1751-1097.1992.tb02238.x

Abstract

—: Phytochrome‐mediated proximity perception and induction of shade avoidance responses provide clues towards a novel genetic engineering approach for the improvement of crop plants. In this Commentary Article, I argue that the elimination, or disablement, of proximity perception and the associated shade avoidance syndrome by transgenic manipulation of phytochrome genes should provide a strategy for the creation of new crop plants in which a greater proportion of assimilates is incorporated into harvestable material. Such a programme would enable increases in agricultural productivity without a requirement for the increased application of agrochemicals. Some potential approaches towards realizing these goals are proposed.

Keywords

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