Gene offers extra nutrition

A gene in wheat which is generally inactive in domesticated varieties could increase levels of protein, iron and zinc, scientists at the University of California at Davis have discovered. Reporting in the journal Science, they suggest that new varieties with a fully functioning version of GPC-B1 can be created through cross-breeding with wild wheat. Professor Jorge Dubcovsky says “even small increases in wheat’s nutritional value may help decrease deficiencies in protein and key micronutrients”.

BBC