Protein is essential for normal human development and physiology, yet is a significant global deficiency. World food staple crops like rice, wheat, cassava, and potato have relatively protein levels, yet constitute a significant portion of calories consumed. Dr. Ling Li of Mississippi State University has identified that overexpression of a gene called NF-YC4 can lead to higher protein accumulation. Her team used gene editing to remove promoter elements that suppress expression of this factor in soybeans and rice. The resulting plants accumulate more protein, and are curently being used in generating seed that may play an important role in global nutrition. 

Follow Dr. Ling Li at @Ling89093335