How do brassinosteroids fit in bud outgrowth models?

This article explores the role of brassinosteroids (BRs) in regulating bud outgrowth and crop architecture. Short stature crops developed during the green revolution disrupted the gibberellin (GA) pathway, leading to reduced height but increased tillering. BRs have emerged as an alternative dwarfing pathway that can decouple tillering from height. The article discusses how BRs integrate with the branching signaling network, particularly through the transcription factor TB1, and highlights the potential for genetic manipulation of BR biosynthesis or signaling components to modify shoot architecture. Further research is needed to understand the effects of BRs on other branching hormones and to uncover new targets for modifying crop architecture. [Extracted from the article]