Updated May 31, 2022:
The overarching goal of this project is to improve protein quality and content through enhancing incorporation of sulfur-containing amino acids into protein at the expense of other uses for sulfur. During the course of the grant, transgenics were generated, screened for uniform genetics, and tested for their biochemical capacity to alter the production of amino acids that are lacking in final protein composition. Protein and oil content, including amino acid and fatty acid composition were analyzed along with gene expression levels to provide data in support of the hypothesized genetic changes. Current work includes in-depth studies to quantify and better understand the impact of amino acid availability and turnover into undesired non-protein products on seed protein quality.