Tiny particle, big payoff
UC Riverside scientists have solved a 20-year-old genetics puzzle, differentiating three particles of Brome Mosaic virus. The discovery could lead to ways to protect wheat, barley, and other crops from the virus.
Wheat
Articles tagged with Wheat
Scientists take a step closer to heat-tolerant wheat
Researchers from Lancaster University have successfully modified a molecular building block in wheat to activate Rubisco faster in hotter temperatures. This breakthrough could help protect crops from rising temperatures and improve global food security.
IKBFU scientists have discovered a way to increase wheat immunity
Researchers at Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal University have found a way to increase wheat immunity by stimulating the biosynthesis of secondary compounds. This breakthrough could lead to the development of pre-sowing treatments that enhance plant resistance to environmental stresses.
Crops sown in a uniform spatial pattern produce higher yields and reduce environmental impact
Researchers found that a uniform grid-like pattern of crop sowing leads to higher yields (76% of trials) and fewer weeds (73% of trials). This approach can reduce herbicide use and fertiliser runoff, resulting in more sustainable agriculture.
Good news for the wheat-sensitive among us
Researchers at Edith Cowan University have developed a way to detect and quantify wheat proteins that trigger intestinal inflammation and chronic ailments. This breakthrough has resulted in a reference map of wheat proteins across diverse varieties and an innovative technique to measure specific proteins.
Recurrent genomic selection for wheat grain fructans
Breeding methodologies can increase fructan levels in winter wheat cultivars without reducing genetic diversity. Researchers successfully developed wheat cultivars with increased fructan levels using recurrent genomic selection, providing a proof-of-concept for improving nutritionally enhanced crops.
Reference genes are identified that are useful for genetic improvement in wheat
A research team has identified reliable reference genes for studying wheat meiosis, enabling precise measurements of gene expression. The discovery will aid future genetic improvement efforts, potentially allowing for manipulation of chromosome associations and integration of genes from other species.
Present-day dogs defy the domestication syndrome
A study published in Evolution Letters found that dog breeds do not exhibit the expected correlation between their physical traits and behavior, contradicting earlier hypotheses. This challenges our understanding of the domestication process and highlights the need to distinguish between domestication traits and improvement traits.
IKBFU and Chinese scientists invented a new way of creating meat analogs
Researchers at Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal University have developed a method for creating vegetable protein non-cholesterol products containing essential amino acids. By optimizing the extrusion process, they improved the texture and taste of meat analogs, making them more comparable to real meat.
Breeding a hardier, more nutritious wheat
A newly developed wheat variety contains higher levels of fructans, a naturally occurring carbohydrate that can promote healthy gut bacteria. The breeders used genomic selection to reduce the development time and cost of creating such a high-fructan wheat variety.
USDA-ARS scientists find new tool to combat major wheat disease
Researchers have identified a gene that can help combat Fusarium Head Blight (FHB), a major threat to wheat crops worldwide. The discovery sheds light on molecular mechanisms making wheat resistant to the pathogen and paves the way for new varieties with improved FHB resistance.
Fungus-derived gene in wild wheatgrass relative confers fusarium resistance in wheat
Researchers have identified a gene from a wild wheatgrass relative that confers resistance to fusarium head blight in wheat. The Fhb7 gene, likely transferred from a fungus, detoxifies mycotoxins produced by Fusarium fungi and promotes broad resistance without affecting yield.
Impact of a second Dust Bowl would be felt worldwide
A second Dust Bowl would severely impact global wheat stocks, with a 31% initial loss and up to 75% depletion by the end of four years. Global trade and supply chains would be affected, leading to price increases for consumers worldwide.
Scientists optimize prime editing for rice and wheat
A research team at the Chinese Academy of Sciences has optimized a prime editing system to create desired point mutations, insertions, and deletions in rice and wheat. The system, called PPE, has achieved efficiencies up to 19.2% with various types of mutations.
Chinese tariff rate quota policy severely impacted US wheat exports
A new study from University of Illinois found that China's tariff quota administration significantly affected US grain exports, particularly for wheat. Wheat imports from the US could have been $324 million or 83% higher without restrictive policies.
Domesticated wheat has complex parentage
Research reveals that domesticated wheat originated from the interbreeding of wild emmer wheat with cultivated varieties in southeast Turkey. This process occurred around 9,500 years ago, contradicting earlier theories of a single origin point.
Scientists unexpectedly witness wolf puppies play fetch
Researchers observe wolf puppies retrieving balls and responding to social cues from unfamiliar humans in a surprising display of cognitive abilities. This finding suggests that ancestral variation may have contributed to human-directed play behavior in dogs.
Drones effective tools for fruit farmers
Researchers explore drone technology to improve fruit tree management, enhancing crop yields and sustainability. Drones equipped with sensors provide high-resolution images and spectral data to monitor tree health, water and nutrient status, and estimate biomass production.
Comparing heirloom and modern wheat effects on gut health
Researchers found that a popular modern variety of wheat does not impair gastrointestinal health in mice compared to heirloom wheat. Heirloom wheat slightly reduced levels of the pro-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-17 and improved gut barrier function, suggesting that modern wheat varieties may be healthier for healthy individuals.
Plant researchers examine bread aroma: Modern and old wheat varieties taste equally good
A study by HHU and the University of Hohenheim found that modern wheat varieties produce equally good-tasting breads as older varieties. The research team used molecular biology methods to predict bread quality, revealing soil type and nutrient content also influence taste.
Climate change and the threat to global breadbaskets
A study by IIASA researchers found that the risk of simultaneous breadbasket failures due to climatic extremes has increased over time, with potential consequences for food price spikes and famine. The analysis suggests a need for more efficient allocation of resources to contingency plans and strategic crop reserves.
Research brief: Origin of deadly wheat pathogen revealed
Researchers analyzed the genome of Ug99 and found that it emerged as a result of somatic hybridization between two different rust strains, creating a unique hybrid with increased virulence. This discovery provides new insights into how Ug99 was able to threaten wheat crops across the world.
Research highlights importance of crop competition as a weed control strategy
A new study found that planting wheat at commercially recommended density can reduce weed biomass and seed production by up to 78% and 50%, respectively. This approach also causes weeds to grow more upright, making them easier to capture during harvesting.
Oil and gas wastewater used for irrigation may suppress plant immune systems
A Colorado State University study found that crops irrigated with oil and gas wastewater have weakened immune systems, making them more vulnerable to bacterial and fungal pathogens. The study's authors suggest assessing plant immune response impacts before reusing treated wastewater for agricultural irrigation.
Fungi could reduce reliance on fertilizers
A study by University of Leeds researchers found that introducing fungi to wheat can boost nutrient uptake and potentially lead to new, climate-resilient crop varieties. The partnership between wheat and soil fungi could help reduce the use of fertilizers, a major contributor to global carbon emissions.
New portable DNA sequencer quickly and accurately diagnoses wheat viruses
A new portable DNA sequencer has been developed to rapidly diagnose wheat viruses with high accuracy. The technology has been tested on four wheat samples from western Kansas and detected three different viruses, including a new strain. This breakthrough has broad applications for plant disease identification and field diagnostics.
Photosynthesis olympics: can the best wheat varieties be even better?
Researchers conducted a 'Photosynthesis Olympics' study to identify the most efficient wheat varieties, finding that top performers were up to 90% better than worst ones due to genetic differences. The results have significant implications for breeders and farmers, offering potential for improved yields with reduced inputs.
Genetics to feed the world
A recent study published in Nature Genetics explores the potential of genomic selection to boost wheat yields and quality. By analyzing genomic data from diverse environments, researchers found that this approach can predict disease resistance, grain quality, and climate resilience with varying degrees of accuracy. The findings provide...
CABI scientists track wheat aphids and their natural enemies for better pest management in Pakistan
Wheat aphid populations and their natural enemies were studied in four agro-ecological zones of Pakistan. The study found no correlation between aphid populations and their predators, but highlighted the importance of understanding where aphids will infest to effectively manage biocontrol agents.
Gene responsible for lutein esterification in bread wheat identified
Researchers have identified the gene Xanthophyll acyl-transferase (Xat) as the key to lutein esterification in bread wheat. This process increases carotenoid stability and retention during storage, maintaining nutritional quality. The discovery opens new opportunities for improving cereal nutrition and addressing carotenoid degradation.
Study: Climate change could cause drought in wheat-growing areas
A new study warns that up to 60% of current wheat-growing areas could experience severe and prolonged droughts by the end of the century due to climate change. This would have a significant impact on global food production and lead to increased food prices.
The next agricultural revolution is here
Scientists Zach Lippman and Yuval Eshed review past agricultural revolutions, highlighting key genetic mutations and modifications. They propose using CRISPR gene editing to introduce new variations in core hormonal systems, potentially boosting crop productivity and adaptability.
MSU research team discovers new microbe in wheat stem sawfly
A team of MSU researchers has discovered a previously unidentified microbe, Spiroplasma sp. WSS, that lives symbiotically with the wheat stem sawfly. The discovery was made using genomic material from sawflies collected at larval and adult stages, and found to help sawflies break down sugars and manufacture nutrients.
Tortillas tell the story of folate deficiency in Mexico: study
A new study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that a significant proportion of Mexican women of childbearing age have inadequate folate intake. The study suggests that fortification of staple foods with folic acid has improved overall folate intake, but still leaves vulnerable populations at risk.
New DNA sequencer method achieves early-stage and broad-range detection of wheat diseases
A new DNA sequencing method can detect early-stage wheat diseases with high accuracy, addressing the limitations of traditional methods. This portable technology can also identify unknown pathogens and diagnose unexpected diseases, saving time and money in agricultural biosecurity monitoring.
10 million new cases of vitamin D deficiency will be prevented by adding vitamin D to wheat flour
Researchers at the University of Birmingham found that fortifying wheat flour with vitamin D alone would save the public purse £65 million by reducing healthcare demands. Combining this with targeted supplementation could prevent 33% of cases, particularly among vulnerable groups.
Alternatives to burning can increase Indian farmers' profits and cut pollution
A new study in Science shows that alternative farming practices can boost farmers' profits while reducing air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. The Happy Seeder system, which allows for direct seeding of wheat into unplowed soil and shredded rice residues, is a promising solution.
Rising CO2 levels could boost wheat yield but slightly reduce nutritional quality
Wheat yields may increase with rising CO2 levels, but at the cost of reduced nutritional quality. Researchers found a 104% higher yield under elevated CO2 conditions, accompanied by declines in nitrogen and protein content.
Just the tonic! How an afternoon tipple made from peas could help save the rainforest
Researchers have discovered that pea gin can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, water pollution, and fossil energy consumption. By using peas instead of wheat grain, distilleries can produce carbon-neutral gins with minimal environmental impact.
Scientists discover how plants breathe -- and how humans shaped their 'lungs'
Researchers at the University of Sheffield have discovered how plants create networks of air channels to transport carbon dioxide, revealing a major step forward in understanding leaf structure and function. The study also shows that humans have bred wheat plants with fewer pores on their leaves, making them more water-efficient.
'Sneezing' plants contribute to disease proliferation
Researchers discovered that wheat plants' sneezing off condensation can spread spore-borne diseases like wheat leaf rust, causing crop yield losses up to 20%. Condensation droplets can carry spores and jump high distances, potentially spreading disease across entire crops.
Cereal grains scientists fight hidden hunger with new approach
Biofortification, a process of developing micronutrient-dense staple crops through breeding and biotechnology, is being used to address global nutrition issues. Provitamin A-biofortified maize has been shown to be an effective source of vitamin A, while zinc-biofortified wheat varieties have reduced pneumonia and vomiting rates in youn...
Wheat myth debunked
A new study debunks the myth that intensive breeding has made modern wheat cultivars weaker. Modern wheat varieties actually out-perform older ones in both optimal and sub-optimum growing conditions. This finding could have significant implications for raising productivity in organic cropping systems.
Crop resilience is focus of new interdisciplinary research
Researchers aim to develop crops more resilient to climate change and emerging pathogens through microbial interactions. The Collaborative Crop Resilience Program will focus on three projects: Matrix, Interact, and InRoot, which examine plant-microbial interactions above ground and below ground, as well as the development of new crop v...
Dramatic change in ancient nomad diets coincides with expansion of networks across Eurasia
A study reveals that pastoralists in ancient Eurasia adopted agricultural products through trade and social networks, driving changes in dietary dynamics. The shift occurred around the transition to the Iron Age, coinciding with the expansion of trans-regional networks and complex political structures.
Sleep, wake, repeat: How do plants work on different time zones?
Research at Earlham Institute reveals that plant clocks oscillate faster as plants age, with wheat exhibiting more rapid oscillations under constant darkness. The study uses delayed fluorescence to measure daily patterns in crops, enabling breeders to select optimal clock rhythms for improved yields.
Resistance to Fusarium head blight holding in Illinois, study says
A new University of Illinois study shows that resistance to Fusarium head blight is holding strong in the state's wheat-growing region, with no signs of a highly toxic NA2 variant found. The study uses field pathogenomics to identify the types of FHB on wheat of different resistance levels.
New research accurately predicts Australian wheat yield months before harvest
A new study published in Agricultural and Forest Meteorology successfully predicts Australian wheat yield two months before the crop matures using a combination of climate and satellite data. The researchers achieved an accuracy rate of approximately 75% in their predictions, outperforming traditional statistical methods.
New avenues for improving modern wheat
A global study of 487 wheat genotypes has mapped the ancestry and genetic diversity of bread wheat, revealing a rich pool of genetic variation that can be used to improve crop resilience. The findings highlight the need for continuous breeding efforts to adapt wheat to changing climates.
CABI-led £1.6 million collaboration helps reduce China's reliance on harmful pesticides
A CABI-led project has helped China reduce its reliance on harmful pesticides by developing cutting-edge data and models to predict crop pest spread and severity. The £1.6m STFC Newton Agri-Tech Fund-financed project has left a lasting legacy in promoting sustainable controls and biopesticide use.
What the wheat genome tells us about wars
Researchers reconstructed wheat breeding history through genetic analysis, linking its evolution to human migration patterns, geopolitical events, and climate change. This knowledge will help optimize modern wheat varieties for improved yield and adaptability in a growing world population.
Sussex mathematician's breakthrough on non-toxic pest control
A University of Sussex mathematician has developed a chemical-free way to target parasitic nematode worms that destroy wheat crops. The breakthrough method uses biostimulants derived from naturally occurring soil bacteria to precisely kill the nematodes without harming other insects.
Targeting how fungi 'taste' wheat could be key to developing control
Researchers at the University of Bath have discovered that targeting fungal G-protein coupled receptors could be key to controlling Fusarium head blight, a devastating disease that affects wheat crops worldwide. By studying these receptors, scientists hope to develop new approaches to control the disease and reduce crop losses.
Linkage is a drag: First wheat gene to rapidly convert defective traits for new
Researchers identified a helicase gene, ReqQ, involved in gene conversion and crossover frequency, the first of its kind in plants. This breakthrough may help breeders break up linked regions, increasing desirable genes without sacrificing vital plant functions.
CRISPRed wheat helps farmers control weeds
Researchers at Chinese Academy of Sciences develop CRISPRed wheat with tolerance to sulfonylurea, imidazolinone, and aryloxyphenoxy propionate-type herbicides. The trait offers low-risk weed control for millions of multi-cropping farmers in China.
Simultaneous heatwaves caused by anthropogenic climate change
A recent study by ETH researchers suggests that anthropogenic climate change is causing simultaneous heatwaves across the Northern Hemisphere, affecting key agricultural regions and densely populated areas. The study found that such large-scale heatwaves first appeared in 2010 and have since become more frequent and widespread.
Genome assembly of pasta wheat leads to new insights for modern wheat breeding
The genome assembly of durum wheat has provided new insights into its domestication history and genetic properties. The study revealed a mutation that leads to high cadmium content in grains, enabling plant breeders to selectively breed modern durum cultivars with reduced cadmium levels.
Gene responsible for toxic metal accumulation in durum wheat identified
A study published in Nature Genetics has identified a gene responsible for cadmium accumulation in durum wheat, a toxic metal that poses serious health risks. The discovery enables the rapid development of low-cadmium durum wheats, increasing the quality and safety of pasta and couscous.
International team decodes the durum wheat genome
An international consortium has sequenced the entire genome of durum wheat, revealing genes responsible for traits like yield, disease resistance, and nutritional properties. The team has also identified a gene that accumulates cadmium in durum grain, enabling selective breeding to reduce toxic levels.
A 5,000-year-old barley grain discovered in Finland changes understanding of livelihoods
Researchers found grains of barley and wheat on the Aland Islands and in Sweden, dating back 4,300-5,300 years. The discovery suggests that small-scale farming was adopted by the Pitted Ware Culture from farmers of the Funnel Beaker Culture.