Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Shoot branching in plants (including tillering in graminaceous crops) is a key agronomic trait affecting plant architecture, resource allocation, and final yield. Branching is a complex developmental process modulated by genetic networks regulating axillary meristem (AM) initiation and subsequent bud activation. This review summarizes the genetic regulatory networks identified in model plants, specifically Arabidopsis thaliana (a dicot) and Oryza sativa (a monocot). Building on this cross-species theoretical framework, we focus on soybean ( Glycine max ), a major economic crop, and provide a comprehensive analysis of recent progress in the functional characterization of branch number specific regulators and quantitative trait loci (QTLs). Given the bottlenecks in soybean architecture improvement resulting from its complex and highly redundant genome, recalcitrance to genetic transformation, and high environmental sensitivity, we discuss potential strategies based on multidisciplinary approaches and emerging technologies. This review aims to provide a new insight for shaping the ideal plant architecture in soybean through molecular design breeding.
Source: Frontiers in Plant Science
Language: English
Subfield: Plant Science
Domain: Life Sciences
SDG: Zero hunger
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,801
OpenAlex ID: W7223274491