This research aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms behind how crops respond to cold stress, with the ultimate goal of improving cold tolerance and stabilizing yields.

The study, led by Kang Chong from the Chinese Academy of Sciences, was published in the journal Molecular Cell on October 30, 2024.

Kang Chong emphasizes the importance of identifying key gene modules like COLD6 to effectively address cold stress in rice production.

Knockout and natural variations of COLD6 in hybrid rice have demonstrated improved chilling tolerance, indicating its crucial role in the geographical adaptation of rice to temperature changes.

The findings of this research align with molecular evidence of rice domestication, showing that many domesticated alleles originated from wild rice in South and Southeast Asia.

As global temperatures continue to fluctuate, the research suggests new breeding strategies for developing cold-resistant rice varieties, which are essential for food security.

Rice is a staple food for millions worldwide, and addressing cold damage is critical to maintaining production levels in regions affected by low temperatures.

A recently identified gene, COLD6, plays a significant role in enhancing cold tolerance in rice, paving the way for breeding varieties that can better withstand cold stress.

Cold damage poses a major challenge to rice production, impacting over 15 million hectares across 24 countries, particularly as climate change leads to fluctuating temperatures.

The study reveals that under normal conditions, COLD6 interacts with the rice G-protein α subunit (RGA1), but during chilling, it binds to the osmotin-like protein (OSM1), which enhances cold tolerance by increasing 2',3'-cAMP levels.