KAUST researchers have published a study in Nature Genetics detailing genomic analysis of wild rice relatives. The study examined nine tetraploid and two diploid wild relatives of rice, finding significant genetic diversity due to transposable elements. This diversity includes genes that confer resilience to heat, drought, and salinity. Why it matters: These findings can help improve rice yields, introduce rice cultivation to currently untenable regions, and protect rice crops against climate change, especially in the Middle East.
NYU Professor Michael Purugganan presented at KAUST's 2014 Winter Enrichment Program (WEP 2014) on the origins of crop species. He discussed how genome sequencing is improving our understanding of crop evolution, using date fruits collected in Jeddah as an example. His research on rice showed that two varieties, japonica and indica, share a single common ancestor, contrary to previous assumptions. Why it matters: Understanding crop evolution can help adapt crops to changing environments, which is crucial for food security in regions like the Middle East.
Dr. Ingo Potrykus, co-inventor of Golden Rice, discussed the potential of this genetically modified crop to combat vitamin A deficiency at KAUST's 2014 Winter Enrichment Program. Golden Rice, engineered to produce beta carotene, could prevent millions of deaths and cases of blindness annually in developing countries where rice is a staple. Regulatory hurdles for GMOs have stalled the distribution of Golden Rice, increasing development costs and delaying its availability to farmers. Why it matters: This highlights the potential of biotechnology developed and discussed in the GCC to address global health challenges, but also the regulatory and ethical considerations surrounding GMOs.
KAUST researchers have developed a surface treatment for jute storage bags to prevent moisture-induced damage to stored grains. The treatment involves roughening the jute surface with an alkali and applying a thin layer of paraffin wax. Experiments showed that seed moisture content reduced by up to 7.5 percent in wax-coated bags, and seed germination efficacy after storage was up to 35 percent higher. Why it matters: This simple, scalable technique could significantly reduce grain losses in developing countries and provide an environmentally friendly alternative for grain storage.
KAUST researchers are studying the chemical signals in pearl millet that trigger the germination of Striga seeds, a parasitic plant. The research aims to understand the biological compounds involved in Striga infestation. The goal is to induce Striga germination without host plants, reducing Striga seed banks in infested soils. Why it matters: Addressing Striga infestation can improve crop yields and food security, especially in regions relying on pearl millet.
Dr. John Bedbrook of DiCE Molecules LLC spoke at KAUST about the challenges of feeding a growing population with increasingly stressed arable land. He noted the increasing demand for meat in emerging economies exacerbates the problem. Bedbrook emphasized the role of genetics and hybridization in improving crop yields and quality to address food security. Why it matters: Investments in agricultural biotechnology are crucial for the GCC region to enhance food security and reduce reliance on imports amid changing climate conditions.
KAUST researchers have developed a genomic resource for Tausch’s goatgrass (Aegilops tauschii), a wild relative of wheat, by creating 46 high-quality genome assemblies. They compiled 493 genetically distinct accessions from an initial 900, collaborating with the Open Wild Wheat Consortium to select accessions with traits of interest, such as disease resistance and stress tolerance. Screening these assemblies helped identify rust resistance genes, including mapping a stem rust resistance gene to the Sr33 locus. Why it matters: This genomic resource will accelerate gene discovery in wheat, potentially improving modern wheat varieties and enhancing global food security.
KAUST's Center of Excellence for Sustainable Food Security (CoE-SFS) has launched 12 translation projects focused on plant growth and water security, establishing partnerships with public and private entities to scale up research. Mark Tester's team developed stress-tolerant rootstocks, grafted onto crops like tomatoes, that thrive in hot, dry conditions with increased yields. Through his start-up Iyris, Tester is conducting commercial field trials in over 12 countries. Why it matters: These efforts to adapt agriculture to environmental change are crucial for ensuring food security in Saudi Arabia, the region, and globally, especially in the face of climate change and limited water resources.