Biofortification Research Methods for Plant Breeding Programs

Emily Klarquist

doi:10.7273/000006316

Micronutrient malnutrition, often referred to as “hidden hunger,” remains a widespread global concern. Given the central role of cereals and legumes in the diets of individuals at risk of micronutrient deficiencies and their widespread accessibility, breeding for mineral density in staple crops, known as “biofortification,” presents a sustainable strategy to improve human health and overall wellbeing. The global introduction (Chapter 1) of this dissertation examines the resources and challenges of integrating biofortification research into plant breeding programs in the United States, with a particular focus on wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). As scoping reviews are essential for the advancement of biofortification and effective nutrition interventions, Chapter 2 outlines a scoping review protocol to map the usage of the biofortification term in peer-reviewed literature, aiming to identify prevalent definitions, research outcomes, and knowledge gaps with the overall goal to develop a standard definition. The chapter also discusses the importance of providing a comprehensive review of biofortification research that can serve as a valuable tool for assessing the current state of knowledge, setting research agendas, and advancing efforts to enhance global food security and nutrition. Chapters 3 and 4 describe the development of novel multi-element phenotyping methods that can be integrated into breeding programs. The first method validates microwave plasma-atomic emission spectrometry (MP-AES) to estimate nine mineral concentrations (calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, manganese, zinc, iron, copper, and aluminum) with good recovering rates (93-120%) for cereals, pseudocereals, and legumes. The second method provides a high throughput method using energy dispersive x-ray fluorescence (EDXRF) to quantify calcium, zinc, iron, manganese, and copper, suitable for screening in large wheat breeding populations. Finally, Chapter 5 evaluates Zn-efficiency in semi-dwarf near-isogenic lines of bread wheat. Identifying the effect of the widely deployed reduced height (Rht) genes on yield and grain Zn concentration of wheat plants grown in Zn-deficient soils will expand our understanding of the pleiotropic effects they might have in limiting current biofortification efforts. The findings from this project will improve our knowledge of grain mineral accumulation and provide germplasm for improving the nutritional value of crops, particularly wheat. In conclusion, this dissertation investigates the pressing global issue of micronutrient malnutrition and its potential mitigation through the biofortification of staple crops. The research describes scoping review methodology for robust evidence synthesis that can inform policy; developing multi-element phenotyping methods for row crops; and evaluating Zn-efficiency in wheat varieties, collectively contributing to a more nutritious agrifood system.

Biofortification Research Methods for Plant Breeding Programs

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