Rice Genomics and Genetics 2024, Vol.15, No.5, 287-296 http://cropscipublisher.com/index.php/rgg 290 protein content, providing a deeper understanding of the genetic basis of this trait (Zhang et al., 2022) (Figure 1). These findings are crucial for breeding programs aimed at enhancing the protein content in rice through marker-assisted selection and genetic engineering. Figure 1 Construction of a metabolite-gene regulatory network in cultivar rice and landrace seeds during germination. (A) A PCA analysis based on the transcriptome in the seeds of landraces and cultivated rice during germination. (B) KEGG analysis of DEGs in the seeds of landraces and cultivated rice during germination. Y-axis represents KEGG pathways, and X-axis indicates the gene ratio. (C) GO enrichment analysis of DEGs in the seeds of landraces and cultivated rice during germination. MF, molecular function; BP, biological process; CC, cellular component. (D) KEGG analysis of DAMs and DEGs in the seeds of landraces and cultivated rice during germination (Adopted from Zhang et al., 2022) 5.2 Genes Involved in Vitamin Biofortification Vitamin biofortification in rice has been a significant focus of genetic engineering efforts. Notable progress has been made in enhancing the levels of vitamins such as A, folate, and E in rice endosperm. For example, the development of "Golden Rice" involved the insertion of genes responsible for the biosynthesis of beta-carotene, a precursor of vitamin A (Das et al., 2020). Similarly, genes involved in the folate biosynthesis pathway have been identified and manipulated to increase folate content in rice grains (Birla et al., 2017). These genetic modifications aim to address vitamin deficiencies in populations that rely on rice as a primary food source. 5.3 Mechanisms Governing Mineral Accumulation The accumulation of essential minerals such as iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), and selenium (Se) in rice grains is governed by complex genetic mechanisms. Several QTLs associated with mineral concentrations have been identified. For instance, a study using doubled haploid (DH) populations identified QTLs for grain Zn and Fe content, with
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjQ4ODYzNA==