Metabolic architecture of the cereal grain and its relevance to maximize carbon use efficiency

Abstract

Here, we have characterized the spatial heterogeneity of the cereal grain’s metabolism and demonstrated how, by integrating a distinct set of metabolic strategies, the grain has evolved to become an almost perfect entity for carbon storage. In vivo imaging revealed light-induced cycles in assimilate supply toward the ear/grain of barley (Hordeum vulgare) and wheat (Triticum aestivum). In silico modeling predicted that, in the two grain storage organs (the endosperm and embryo), the light-induced shift in solute influx does cause adjustment in metabolic flux without changes in pathway utilization patterns. The enveloping, leaf-like pericarp, in contrast, shows major shifts in flux distribution (starch metabolism, photosynthesis, remobilization, and tricarboxylic acid cycle activity) allow to refix 79% of the CO2 released by the endosperm and embryo, allowing the grain to achieve an extraordinary high carbon conversion efficiency of 95%. Shading experiments demonstrated that ears are autonomously able to raise the influx of solutes in response to light, but with little effect on the steady-state levels of metabolites or transcripts or on the pattern of sugar distribution within the grain. The finding suggests the presence of a mechanism(s) able to ensure metabolic homeostasis in the face of short-term environmental fluctuation. The proposed multicomponent modeling approach is informative for predicting the metabolic effects of either an altered level of incident light or a momentary change in the supply of sucrose. It is therefore of potential value for assessing the impact of either breeding and/or biotechnological interventions aimed at increasing grain yield.