In the heart of Beijing, researchers at the Biotechnology Research Institute of the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences have made a significant stride in the world of oilseed crops. Led by Caiyue Liu, a team of scientists has successfully constructed a mutant library of flax (Linum usitatissimum L.), a globally important crop valued for its edible and industrial uses. Their findings, published in the journal ‘Plants’ (which translates to ‘Plants’ in English), could have profound implications for the energy sector and beyond.
Flax seeds are renowned for their richness in unsaturated fatty acids, making them a valuable commodity in both food and industrial applications. The team employed ethyl methyl sulfone (EMS) to induce mutations in the flax cultivar Longya 10, aiming to enhance its oleic acid content. After rigorous screening, they identified M45, a stable mutant that showed a remarkable 21.23% increase in oleic acid content compared to the wild-type, reaching 43.22% at 40 days after flowering.
The researchers delved deeper into the molecular mechanisms behind this impressive trait using a multi-omics approach. RNA-Seq analysis revealed the presence of two homologs of the SAD (stearoyl-ACP desaturase) family and two homologs of the FAD2 (fatty acid desaturase 2) family, which exhibited differential expression patterns consistent with the phenotype of M45. “This differential expression suggests that these genes play a crucial role in the accumulation of oleic acid in the mutant,” explained Liu.
To further pinpoint the genetic basis of the increased oleic acid content, the team conducted a BSA-Seq analysis. This technique helped identify genes with SNPs (single nucleotide polymorphisms) and Indel (insertions/deletions) variant loci associated with the trait. The combination of BSA-Seq, RNA-Seq, and metabolomic analyses led to the identification of L.us.o.g.scaffold122.86, a gene that may be co-expressed with L.us.o.g.scaffold7.26 to influence oleic acid accumulation via FAD2.
The implications of this research are far-reaching, particularly for the energy sector. High-oleic acid crops are in high demand for the production of biodiesel, as they offer improved oxidative stability and better performance in cold weather. “Enhancing the oleic acid content in flax could make it a more attractive feedstock for biodiesel production, contributing to the development of sustainable and renewable energy sources,” said Liu.
Moreover, the multi-omics approach employed in this study sets a precedent for future research in crop improvement. By integrating genomics, transcriptomics, and metabolomics, scientists can gain a comprehensive understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying desirable traits, paving the way for more targeted and efficient breeding programs.
As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change and the need for sustainable energy sources, research like this offers a glimmer of hope. The work of Liu and her team not only advances our understanding of flax genetics but also brings us one step closer to a greener and more sustainable future.