Improving Spring Wheat Genetics Through Breeding Experiments

Greg Howard
26th April, 2024

Improving Spring Wheat Genetics Through Breeding Experiments

Image Source: Natural Science News, 2024

Key Findings

  • Study in Prague evaluated 60 spring durum wheat genotypes for grain quality and suitability for Czech climate
  • Six genotypes showed high grain quality, suitable for bread-making, comparable to modern cultivars
  • Two genotypes had desirable gluten proteins, indicating potential for high-quality bread production
In recent years, the demand for wheat with superior end-use qualities has intensified, pushing scientists to explore the genetic diversity of wheat varieties. A pivotal area of focus has been the high molecular weight glutenin subunits (HMW-GSs), which are proteins that significantly impact the baking and pasta-making qualities of wheat. Variations in these proteins can alter the elasticity and strength of dough, which are critical factors for the food industry. A recent study by the Crop Research Institute[1] has made strides in this field by evaluating 60 newly acquired spring durum wheat genotypes, with the aim of enhancing the Prague Gene Bank collection. This research not only assessed the field performance of these genotypes but also delved into their technological grain quality, which is a key consideration for their potential use in breeding programs and crop improvement. The study examined a comprehensive set of 11 field parameters, such as grain yield and protein content, alongside 6 technological parameters, including gluten strength and starch content. These measures are essential for determining the suitability of wheat for various end products. For instance, a high gluten index indicates strong gluten, which is desirable for bread-making. Among the genotypes analyzed, six showed high technological grain quality, comparable to modern durum wheat cultivars. This is significant because modern breeding has often been associated with increased yield but reduced protein concentration and genetic diversity[2]. By identifying genotypes with both high yield and desirable grain quality, the study contributes to a more nuanced understanding of the genetic potential within wheat. To identify the specific HMW-GSs present, researchers employed two protein extraction methods. These procedures are crucial because they influence the detection of glutenin subunits, which in turn, informs the selection of genotypes with the best qualities for bread and pasta production. The study found that two accessions, M90-99–2 and IG 142076, had high Zeleny sedimentation values, an indicator of good bread-making quality, likely due to the presence of the desirable HMW-GS A1: (2*) allele. The presence of superior glutenin subunits has been shown to correlate with good bread-making quality[3]. The upward trend in the frequency of these superior subunits over the last 40 years suggests that there is an ongoing effort to improve wheat quality through breeding. The new genotypes identified in the Crop Research Institute study contribute to this effort by expanding the genetic resources available for breeding programs. Furthermore, the study's findings resonate with earlier research that highlighted how breeding over the last century has altered developmental phases in wheat, leading to increased grain yield and the number of grains per spike[4]. By understanding the genetic basis for these improvements, researchers can continue to refine breeding strategies to enhance both yield and quality. In conclusion, the Crop Research Institute's study has provided valuable insights into the genetic diversity of spring durum wheat genotypes, particularly in terms of their HMW-GS composition and technological grain quality. This research not only contributes to the conservation of genetic resources but also offers promising candidates for future breeding efforts aimed at meeting the dual objectives of high yield and superior grain quality. The study's integration of field performance with detailed grain quality analysis sets a precedent for comprehensive evaluations of wheat genotypes, ensuring that the varieties of tomorrow are not only high-yielding but also nutritionally and technologically superior.

GeneticsPlant ScienceAgriculture

References

Main Study

1) The benefits of experimental breeding research genotypes for the genetic resources of spring durum wheat

Published 25th April, 2024

https://doi.org/10.1007/s10722-024-01946-z

Related Studies

2) From ancient to old and modern durum wheat varieties: interaction among cultivar traits, management, and technological quality.

https://doi.org/10.1002/jsfa.9388

3) Allelic variation of high molecular weight glutenin subunits of bread wheat in Hebei province of China.

Journal: Journal of genetics, Issue: Vol 97, Issue 4, Sep 2018

4) Changes in duration of developmental phases of durum wheat caused by breeding in Spain and Italy during the 20th century and its impact on yield.

https://doi.org/10.1093/aob/mcr063


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