U.S.-Argentina Program: Molecular Genetic Analysis of Lipoxygenase Activity in Pasta Wheat

University Of California-Davis, Davis CA

Investigators

Abstract

0404590 Dubcovsky This U.S.- Argentina award will provide support for Dr. Jorge Dubcovsky, University of California, Davis, to collaborate with Dr. Viviana Echnique at the Universidad Nacional del Sur in Bahia Blanca, Argentina. Their project involves the molecular genetic analysis of lipoxygenase activity in pasta wheat. This activity contributes to the bright yellow color in pasta and pasta products. The pigment is an antioxidant, which increases the nutritional value of these products. The goal of this project is to provide a better understanding of the interaction between Lox activity and pasta color in durum wheat and to develop new molecular tools for the manipulation of this trait in breeding programs. An added benefit of this project is that a U.S. student will travel to Argentina to learn Lox activity tests while participating in an international research activity.