Chinese researchers have identified a drought-resistant rice gene that could revolutionize global crop resilience under climate pressure. Scientists from BGI-Research, Huazhong Agricultural University, and Yunnan University announced their findings in Molecular Plant this April. They discovered that removing a gene called HMGB1 in irrigated rice allows roots to grow longer and thicker. These traits mirror those found in upland rice, known for thriving in dry soil conditions. The discovery could help convert high-yield rice into drought-resilient crops.
The research team studied 16 rice cultivars, split evenly between upland and irrigated varieties, and compared their root systems. They observed that deeper and thicker roots consistently boosted drought resistance in upland types. Among 376 genes involved in root development, HMGB1 emerged as a key factor affecting drought response. Higher expression levels of the gene shortened root length and weakened drought tolerance. Reducing HMGB1 improved resilience significantly in water-scarce conditions.
Lead author Zhong Liyuan, from BGI-Research, emphasized that identifying the drought-resistant rice gene shortens breeding time. Traditionally, breeders rely on random selection to stabilize desired traits across generations. Now, with targeted gene identification, researchers can focus only on drought-relevant hybrids. However, Zhong noted that stabilizing these traits will still take eight to ten years. Generational planting remains necessary to ensure consistency across large-scale production.
Currently, irrigated rice occupies 55 percent of the world’s rice-growing land and produces 75 percent of global output. In China alone, rice consumes 70 percent of agricultural water and half of total national water use. As water scarcity worsens, the pressure to develop drought-tolerant crops continues to intensify. The drought-resistant rice gene discovery offers a promising path to improve food security amid climate change.
Researchers see potential to breed rice that maintains high yield while surviving unpredictable weather and limited water supplies. The drought-resistant rice gene could guide future crossbreeding between upland and irrigated varieties. As global temperatures rise, efforts like this one become essential to stabilize agricultural output. Zhong and her team will continue trials and genetic refinement in the coming years. With sustained support, China may soon introduce a drought-resilient rice variety suited for both scale and sustainability.
