Matthias J. Neumann, Ananya Rao, Hye-Jin Park
Photosynthesis is a critical process in plants that directly affects global food production and carbon cycling. Despite its significance, the efficiency of photosynthesis in many plants remains suboptimal. This study aims to enhance the photosynthetic efficiency of Arabidopsis thaliana by genetically modulating the expression of Rubisco Activase (RCA), a crucial enzyme in the Calvin cycle. Using CRISPR-Cas9 gene-editing technology, we developed transgenic Arabidopsis lines with overexpressed RCA. Photosynthetic performance was assessed under controlled environmental conditions using gas exchange measurements and chlorophyll fluorescence analysis. Our findings demonstrate a significant increase in net photosynthetic rate by 27% and a 15% enhancement in biomass accumulation compared to wild-type plants. The transgenic lines also showed improved tolerance to fluctuating light conditions, highlighting the potential of RCA modulation in adapting to variable climates. This research underscores the viability of genetic interventions in improving photosynthetic performance and presents a promising approach to increasing crop productivity. Future studies should focus on applying similar genetic strategies in crop species to evaluate broader agricultural impacts.