Scientists from Huazhong University of Science and Technology, China and
University of Technology, Netherlands overexpressed Puroindoline gene in
durum wheat to alter its very hard kernel texture. After transformation,
they characterized the transgenic durum wheat lines and investigated the
changes on grain texture and other kernel characteristics.

Grain hardness analysis and flour milling tests showed that the
overexpression of PINA led to decreased grain hardness and increased flour
yield in GM wheat lines. The agronomic performance of the GM and non-GM
lines were compared and found that no significant differences in measured
traits were observed in the 2-year field trials.

The authors concluded that since grain hardness strongly affects milling and
end-use qualities, the development of medium-hard-textured durum wheat lines
is not only important for information about grain hardness and
Puroindolines, but also has practical implications for plant breeders and
food technologists for the further development of durum wheat products.

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