Seeds for a better future: 'low phytate' grains help to overcome malnutrition and reduce pollution.
myo-Inositol(1,2,3,4,5,6)hexakisphosphate (InsP(6) or 'phytic acid') was first known as the storage form of phosphorus in seeds. Seed-derived dietary InsP(6) can contribute to iron and zinc deficiency in human populations. Excretion of 'phytic acid phosphorus' by non-ruminants such as poultry, swine and fish can contribute to water pollution. Sustainable solutions to these important problems might depend on progress in the molecular biology and genetics of InsP(6) accumulation during seed development. The development of 'low phytate' grain and legume genotypes could help advance our understanding of this biology, and when used in foods and feeds might help to reduce human malnutrition and reduce animal waste phosphorus.
Raboy
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US Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, 1691 So. 2700 W, PO Box 307, Aberdeen, ID 83210, USA. vraboy@uidaho.edu
D000368:Aged; D000818:Animals; D001709:Biotechnology; D002648:Child; D019049:Developed Countries; D003906:Developing Countries; D004032:Diet; D007887:Fabaceae / Q000235:genetics; D006801:Humans; D000090463:Iron Deficiencies; D008958:Models, Molecular; D009369:Neoplasms; D009748:Nutrition Disorders / Q000517:prevention & control; D018384:Oxidative Stress; D017553:Phosphorus Compounds / Q000737:chemistry / Q000378:metabolism*; D010833:Phytic Acid / Q000737:chemistry / Q000378:metabolism*; D012639:Seeds / Q000737:chemistry / Q000378:metabolism*; D014876:Water Pollution / Q000517:prevention & control; D003313:Zea mays / Q000737:chemistry / Q000235:genetics / Q000378:metabolism; D015032:Zinc / Q000172:deficiency
D017553:Phosphorus Compounds; D010833:Phytic Acid; D015032:Zinc