Manipulation of the genome of a toxic alkaloid in barley opens up new opportunities for crop breeding

The alkaloid gramine contained in barley plays an important role in protecting the plant from insects, but at the same time makes it less attractive to ruminants. However, modern bioengineering methods allow scientists and breeders to achieve a balance between the protective properties and taste of barley.

Researchers have identified a cluster of two genes responsible for the synthesis of the alkaloid gramine in barley. The first gene was discovered a long time ago, and the second gene, responsible for amino synthase (HVAMIS), was recently discovered by scientists from the Institute of Plant Genetics and Agricultural Plant Research. Leibniz and Leibniz University Hannover. This discovery helped to completely unravel the biosynthesis pathway of gramine in barley.

Scientists have found that HVAMIS is an oxidase enzyme that facilitates the rearrangement of tryptophan, which represents a new concept in the biosynthesis of this alkaloid. This opens up new opportunities for the biotechnological production of biologically active substances.

With just two genes responsible for gramine production, it is possible to use these results for practical purposes. Genetic engineering allows breeders to adjust the level of alkaloid in barley depending on needs by editing the genome.

Thus, new discoveries in the field of gramine biosynthesis open up broad prospects for improving cereal crops and increasing their protective and taste qualities.