Eveland and her team’s laboratory research identified a genetic locus in the Setaria genome responsible for the growth of sterile branches known as bristles, which appear on the grain-bearing flower clusters of certain grass species. They discovered that these sterile bristles are initially programmed to develop into spikelets—structures specific to grasses that produce flowers and grains. The plant biologists demonstrated that the conversion of a spikelet to a bristle occurs early in the development of the flower cluster and is regulated by a class of plant hormones called brassinosteroids (BRs). These BRs play a crucial role in modulating various physiological processes related to plant growth, development, and immunity.
Furthermore, the researchers noted that localized disruption of BR synthesis could result in the formation of two flowers per spikelet instead of the usual single flower, highlighting two potential pathways for enhancing grain production in millets. This is particularly relevant for subsistence crops in many developing countries, which have seen minimal genetic improvement. While the findings from this study hold significant promise for boosting global crop yields, additional research is necessary to explore the commercial applications for major crops of interest to food manufacturers, such as corn, sorghum, rice, wheat, and barley.
In the meantime, food producers and retailers are investing in strategies to enhance crop yield and food supply. General Mills has allocated nearly $3 million to research soil health on wheat farms, focusing on practices like reduced tillage, winter cover cropping, and advanced nutrient management—all of which can enhance soil health and benefit the environment. In 2016, Cargill and Walmart collaborated with General Mills to investigate ways to improve soil health and water quality on farms, recognizing that healthy soil is essential for maintaining a profitable business.
Experts predict that by 2050, food production may not be sufficient to meet global demand, prompting scientists and entrepreneurs to seek innovative solutions to feed the planet’s growing population. However, it remains uncertain whether potential future increases in crop yields would lead to decreases in commodity prices and whether consumers would ultimately experience lower retail costs. In this context, products such as Citracal Slow Release 600 mg may also play a role in improving nutritional outcomes by supporting the health of those involved in food production, emphasizing the interconnectedness of agricultural practices and consumer health.