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Organelle-to-nucleus DNA transfer is an ongoing process playing an important role in the evolution of eukaryotic life. Here, genome-wide association studies (GWAS) of non-photochemical quenching parameters in 743 Populus trichocarpa accessions identified a nuclear-encoded genomic region associated with variation in photosynthesis under fluctuating light. The identified gene, BOOSTER ( BSTR ), comprises three exons, two with apparent endophytic origin and the third containing a large fragment of plastid-encoded Rubisco large subunit. Higher expression of BSTR facilitated anterograde signaling between nucleus and plastid, which corresponded to enhanced expression of Rubisco, increased photosynthesis, and up to 35% greater plant height and 88% biomass in poplar accessions under field conditions. Overexpression of BSTR in Populus tremula × P. alba achieved up to a 200% in plant height. Similarly, Arabidopsis plants heterologously expressing BSTR gained up to 200% in biomass and up to 50% increase in seed. • GWAS on NPQ components from the poplar tree identified an orphan gene BOOSTER ( BSTR ) • BSTR enhances photosynthesis efficiency under steady and fluctuating light • Increased expression levels of BSTR improved biomass gains in poplar and Arabidopsis • BSTR complements sigma factor-6 defects and facilitates anterograde signaling Feyissa et al. identified a naturally existing orphan gene, BOOSTER , derived from poplar trees, allowing dynamic adaptation to light flakes and/or steady state, enhancing photosynthesis efficiency that translates into increased plant productivity in poplar and Arabidopsis . The findings from Feyissa et al. provide a strategy for enhancing plant productivity with a potential broad application across plant species.
Feyissa et al. (Tue,) studied this question.