Researchers to Improve Wheat Tolerance to Heat Using CRISPR

A research team at South Dakota State University (SDSU) led by Professor Wanlong Li is set to modify the genetic code of wheat plants using gene editing to make them more tolerant to heat stress.

To grow wheat, the ideal temperatures according to NASA, vary between 70F and 75F, but some varieties, like winter wheat, can grow in temperatures as low as 40F. However, when temperatures exceed 90F, heat stress can cause significant yield loss, and this is a growing concern as the Great Plains of North America, also called the "wheat basket of the world" is predicted to see more frequent heat waves and higher average summer temperatures in the face of a changing climate.

Heat tolerant wheat varieties are needed, but developing heat tolerance in wheat is hindered by complicated genetics mechanisms.