Natural variation in expression of genes associated with carotenoid biosynthesis and accumulation in cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) storage root.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) storage root provides a staple food source for millions of people worldwide. Increasing the carotenoid content in storage root of cassava could provide improved nutritional and health benefits. Because carotenoid accumulation has been associated with storage root color, this study characterized carotenoid profiles, and abundance of key transcripts associated with carotenoid biosynthesis, from 23 landraces of cassava storage root ranging in color from white-to-yellow-to-pink. This study provides important information to plant breeding programs aimed at improving cassava storage root nutritional quality.

Results

Among the 23 landraces, five carotenoid types were detected in storage root with white color, while carotenoid types rang

SUBMITTER: Carvalho LJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4902922 | biostudies-literature | 2016 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature