Abstract: Nucleotide sequences encoding RTL polypeptides are provided herein, along with plants and cells having increased levels of RTL gene expression, increased levels of RTL transcription factor activity, or both. Plants with increased levels of at least one RTL gene expression that exhibit reduced ethylene sensitivity, increased yield, increased abiotic stress tolerance, or any combination of these, are provided. Methods for increasing yield, and abiotic stress tolerance in plants, by modulating RTL gene expression or activity, are also provided.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides polynucleotides and related polypeptides which are used to modify ethylene sensitivity in plants. Ethylene insensitive transgenic maize plants produce higher grain yields in water deficient and low nitrogen environments than non-transgenic plants. Through controlled expression of the transgene in desired tissues and organs, or specific plant developmental stages, the ethylene perception and signal transduction is altered to create transgenic plants which yield better under abiotic stress.