Science - Maize Mania: Unearthing Roots’ Secret Superpowers Against Drought

The study led by Johannes D. Scharwies at Stanford University explores the genetic and hormonal mechanisms behind maize roots' response to moisture, uncovering how plants navigate dry conditions. Their research highlights the diversity of genetic responses in maize strains to drought and identifies the significant role of hormones like auxin, ethylene, and arabinogalactan protein in facilitating moisture-seeking behavior. These findings promise transformative agricultural practices for developing drought-resistant crops, essential amid escalating climatic changes and water scarcity.
Scharwies J D, Clarke T, Zheng Z, et al. Moisture-responsive root-branching pathways identified in diverse maize breeding germplasm[J]. Science, 2025, 387(6734). (DOI: 10.1126/science.ads5999).