Protein is essential for normal human development and physiology, yet is a significant global deficiency. World food staple crops like rice, wheat, cassava, and potato have relatively protein levels, yet constitute a significant portion of calories consumed. Dr. Ling Li of Mississippi State University has identified that overexpression of a gene called NF-YC4 can lead to higher protein accumulation. Her team used gene editing to remove promoter elements that suppress expression of this factor in soybeans and rice. The resulting plants accumulate more protein, and are curently being used in generating seed that may play an important role in global nutrition.
Follow Dr. Ling Li at @Ling89093335
What is Talking Biotech with Dr. Kevin Folta?
Talking Biotech is a weekly podcast that uncovers the stories, ideas and research of people at the frontier of biology and engineering.
Each episode explores how science and technology will transform agriculture, protect the environment, and feed 10 billion people by 2050.
Interviews are led by Dr. Kevin Folta, a professor of molecular biology and genomics.