Reduced terpene levels in cottonseed add food to fiber

Trends Biotechnol. 2007 Jun;25(6):239-41. doi: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2007.03.012. Epub 2007 Apr 12.

Abstract

Using RNA interference (RNAi) technology, the levels of a toxic phytoprotectant have recently been reduced specifically in the seeds of cotton to generate a novel dual-purpose crop. By engineering an endogenous terpene pathway, there is now the exciting potential for an added-value, genetically modified crop with the cash value of the fiber supported by the improved nutritional value and expanded food and feed use for the cottonseed, which is normally a low-value by-product.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cotton Fiber / methods
  • Food, Genetically Modified*
  • Genetic Enhancement / methods
  • Gossypium / physiology*
  • Plant Proteins / genetics*
  • Plants, Genetically Modified / metabolism*
  • Protein Engineering / methods
  • Seeds / genetics*
  • Terpenes / metabolism*

Substances

  • Plant Proteins
  • Terpenes