August 30, 2010

UK researchers unveils wheat gene code

Crop traits vital for future food production could soon be within the grasp of plant breeders, as scientists unravelled the genetic sequence of the wheat plant.

Researchers hope that the breakthrough will accelerate research into traits such as drought resistance, salt tolerance and higher yields.

That could help feed a growing world population and improve UK farmers' competitiveness, a spokesman for the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council said.

The information was publicly released on Friday (Aug 27) by the BBSRC which funded the research.

According to researchers, the wheat genome is five times larger than the human genome and presents a huge challenge for scientists. The genome sequences are an important tool for researchers and for plant breeders and by making the data publicly available we are ensuring this research has the widest possible impact, researchers said.

Meanwhile, BBSRC chief executive Doug Kell added that recent short-term price spikes in the wheat markets have shown how vulnerable the food system is to shocks and potential shortages.