BREAD 2013

An investigation into the utility of anatomical root traits for drought tolerance yielded novel insights in maize physiology and high-throughput phenotyping.

Project highlights are provided by Khwan Patompong Johns Saengwilai, PhD, on RCA, and Joseph Chimungu, PhD candidate, on CCFN and cell size, advised by Dr. Jonathan Lynch and Dr. Kathleen Brown at Penn State University.

Root Cortical Aerenchyma in Maize

Root cortical aerenchyma was assessed for physiological utility in maize, and was found to promote root growth and increase stress tolerance.

CCFN and Cell Size in Maize Roots

Cortical cell file number and cell size may be important root traits for water and nutrient acquisition in maize.

Award Abstract

Improving water acquisition in maize with root traits that reduce the metabolic cost of soil exploration. This project received funding from NSF BREAD (Basic Research to Enhance Agricultural Development) in 2011, 2012 and 2013.

Spotlight

Professor Kathleen Brown retires after 41 years Amelia Henry receives humanitarian award Jagdeep Sidhu receives research award Roots lab research focus of podcast from West German Public Radio Newly discovered trait helps plants grow deeper roots in dry, compacted soils | Penn State University CSA news article on Roots Lab work with bean breeding Jagdeep Sidhu Receives College Research Funding Jonathan Lynch recognized as Highly Cited Researcher by Clarivate Graduate student receives special award for early career contributions to ASPB LAT root image wins photo competition of Egyptian Academy of Scientific Research Graduate student awarded Outstanding Agricultural Graduate Student Award from AASIO News story on bean root architecture reaches 6 million people, worth $240,000 Bean root architecture results highlighted in CSSA News Field work proceeds with physical distancing, safety precautions