Biofortification of brassica species for increased micronutrient uptake
This research focuses on enhancing the uptake of essential micronutrients like calcium and magnesium in Brassica species through genetic modifications of sgn3 and cax1a genes. The goal is to combat global mineral deficiencies by producing nutrient-rich crops.
Overview
This innovative research aims to address global micronutrient deficiencies by enhancing the uptake of essential minerals such as calcium and magnesium in crop plants. By targeting specific genes, sgn3 and cax1a, the project focuses on biofortifying Brassica species to increase their mineral content. This is crucial as over 2 billion people worldwide suffer from deficiencies in key vitamins and minerals. The approach involves using mutants of Brassica rapa that have shown significantly higher levels of calcium and magnesium compared to wild-type varieties.
Technical specifications
Key features of the research include:
- Use of Brassica rapa loss-of-function mutants, braA.sgn3.a-1, which double magnesium content, and braA.cax1a-12, which increases calcium content by 1.6 times.
- Plans to breed these mutations into edible varieties of Brassica rapa and other species like B. oleracea.
- Gene editing of sgn3 and cax1a in other crops including cereals and fruits to broaden the application.
- Validation of bioavailability of increased nutrients through in vitro digestion and cell-based assays.
Technology readiness level
This research is at Technology Readiness Level 4, indicating that the technology is validated in a lab environment. Future plans include breeding these genetic modifications into edible varieties and demonstrating the bioavailability of the nutrients through further studies, which are projected to take two years to complete.
About University of Nottingham
The University of Nottingham is a comprehensive public research university and Russell Group member based in Nottingham, with campuses in China and Malaysia, enabling international collaboration and talent pipelines. Industry partners engage through an on-campus research and technology park that co-locates companies with university groups, plus shared-use facilities and pilot spaces for scale-up. Integration with a major NHS hospital system supports clinical trials and translation, while placements and professional programs connect companies with student and graduate talent. Research is supported by competitive funding from UKRI research councils and Innovate UK, with added support through NHS partnerships and European programs. A dedicated technology transfer office manages IP, licensing, and spinout formation.
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