Rice Gene Variant QT12 Boosts Heat Resistance

Developing StoryLast updated JUN 6
SUMMARY

Scientists are collaborating with agricultural companies to integrate the heat-resistance gene QT12 into commercial breeding programs, with field trials in China's Yangtze River basin showing yield increases of 49.1% to 77.9% in hybrid rice varieties as of June 6, 2026. The QT12 gene, discovered by Chinese researchers and published in the journal Cell on May 20, 2024, shields rice grains from high temperatures by interacting with the NF-Y protein complex, maintaining starch and protein synthesis stability. This discovery offers a potential strategy for developing more resilient rice varieties, addressing the negative impact of QT12 overactivity on protein and starch storage under elevated temperatures.

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June 2026 — 1 developments

  1. Scientists are collaborating with agricultural companies to integrate the heat-resistance gene QT12 …

    Scientists are collaborating with agricultural companies to integrate the heat-resistance gene QT12 into commercial breeding programs, with field trials in China's Yangtze River basin showing yield increases of 49.1% to 77.9% in hybrid rice varieties. The QT12 gene shields rice grains from high temperatures by interacting with the NF-Y protein complex, maintaining starch and protein synthesis stability.

May 2026 — 2 developments

  1. Chinese researchers have discovered the QT12 gene, which significantly enhances rice's tolerance to extreme heat.

    Chinese researchers have discovered the QT12 gene, which significantly enhances rice's tolerance to extreme heat. The findings were published in the journal Cell on May 20, 2024, and the gene interacts with the NF-Y protein complex to create a protective mechanism.

  2. Scientists have identified the QT12 gene's role in the Sec61 cellular transport system as key to rice heat resistance.

    Scientists have identified the QT12 gene's role in the Sec61 cellular transport system as key to rice heat resistance. Under elevated temperatures, QT12 overactivity disrupts protein and starch storage in grains, negatively impacting quality and yield. This discovery offers a potential strategy for developing more resilient rice varieties.