OsRF2b interacting with OsbZIP61 modulates nitrogen use efficiency and grain yield via heterodimers in rice.

ABSTRACT: Nitrogen (N) is critical for crop growth, and enhancing nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) is essential for achieving high grain yields and quality in crop production. In this study, we identified two transcription factors OsRF2b and OsbZIP61, which localize in the nucleus and function as negative regulators of NUE and grain yield in rice. OsRF2b responds to nitrogen supplies, and overexpression of OsRF2b resulted in growth retardation, reduced nitrogen content, and lower NUE in transgenic lines, leading to decreased grain yield. In contrast, the rf2b mutant exhibited increased plant height, grain size, and NUE, which contribute to improved grain yield. Furthermore, RT-qPCR results showed that OsRF2b overexpression significantly downregulated OsNRT1.1B and OsNRT2.1/2.2 expression, while the OsR

SUBMITTER: Li C 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12310816 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature