Scientists at the John Innes Centre discovered the genetic mechanism that
control wheat breeding. This discovery is important in breeding more
valuable crops and produce more yield for food.
Prof. Graham Moore and team found how Ph1 region in the wheat genome
controls exchange of genes. This region is responsible for preventing
incorrect chromosomes in exchanging parts with each other. The team
discovered that the proteins produced by the Ph1 region reduce the activity
of proteins which bind to the sections of the chromosomes where the DNA
exchange occurs. This prevents gene swapping between chromosomes. The
discovery of how these plants stabilize their genomes and protect their
fertility could lead to ways for breeders to temporarily 'turn off' Ph1.
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