Genetic modification of Arachis hypogaea for quality traits

Authors: KNOLL, J - University Of Georgia; CHU, Y - University Of Georgia; Holbrook, Carl - Corley; OZIAS-AKINS, P - University Of Georgia

Submitted to: Meeting Abstract
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 9/20/2009
Publication Date: 10/15/2009
Citation: Knoll, J., Chu, Y., Holbrook Jr, C.C., Ozias-Akins, P. 2009. Genetic modification of Arachis hypogaea for quality traits. Proceedings 4th International Conference on Advances in Arachis through Genomics and Biotechnology. p. 35.

Interpretive Summary: not required

Technical Abstract: TILLING, targeting induced local lesions in genomes, combines conventional mutagenesis with targeted screening of known genes. Advantages are that a series of alleles can be recovered to assist with functional analysis, and mutations can be identified in polyploids where a phenotype is likely to be absent. Disadvantages of TILLING explicit to polyploids are that gene-specific primers must be designed to distinguish homeologs, and a phenotype is unlikely to be observed until mutations in homeologs are combined by crossing. A TILLING population has been generated in tetraploid peanut and screened for mutations in genes for allergenic proteins Ara h 1, Ara h 2, as well as the oil biosynthesis enzyme FAD2. Silencing of Ara h 2 by RNA interference has provided evidence that this protein and its related family member Ara h 6 may be dispensable for peanut seed growth, development, and viability. Therefore, recovery of knockout mutations in the two genes of Ara h 2 should allow elimination of this most severe allergen from peanut seed. Up to now potential knockout mutations in one copy each of Ara h 1, Ara h 2, and Fad2 have been identified and functional analysis is in progress.