Controlling GRF4-GIF1 Expression for Efficient, Genotype-Independent Transformation Across Wheat Cultivars

Abstract

Bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) plays a vital role in global food security, and its continuous genetic improvement is essential to meet the demands of a rapidly growing world population. Advances in genome sequencing and assembly have positioned wheat as a model crop for functional genomics and have increased the demand for highly efficient, genotype-independent transformation systems. A fusion technology involving a GROWTH-REGULATING FACTOR (GRF) and a GRF-INTERACTING FACTOR (GIF) has emerged as a powerful tool to enhance regeneration efficiency and expand the range of transformable genotypes. In this study, we present an optimized and robust Agrobacterium-mediated wheat transformation protocol incorporating GRF4-GIF1, tested across multiple wheat varieties. Across all tested wheat cultivars, GRF4-GIF1 containing constructs consistently enabled successful transformation, with varied efficiencies depending on the genotype and promotors used to drive the gene fusion. Our method significantly improves transformation efficiency while minimizing GRF4-GIF1 pleiotropic effects, providing a versatile platform for gene function analysis and gene editing. This work represents a critical step toward efficient, genotype-independent transformation in wheat, supporting both research and breeding applications aimed at improving crop resilience, nutritional value, and productivity.