Transcriptome sequencing of rice constitutively overexpressing the transcription factor OsBZR1

The brassinosteroid-related transcription factor, OsBZR1, was constitutively overexpressed in rice to study its role during chloroplast development. Specifically, the number and size of chloroplasts in the rice bundle sheath cells was assessed. These plants showed increased bundle sheath cell chloroplast area but severe adverse impacts on plant health and yield. The increased bundle sheath cell chloroplast area has relevance in understanding the control of chloroplast development in monocots such that it can be rationally redesigned for improved photosynthesis.