Dr Antoinette van Schalkwyk, Dr Boney Kuriakose, Erika Viljoen
Quality and wholesomeness of food and food products are two issues addressed prominently by society especially in relation to obesity (and atherosclerosis), the most important cause of cardiovascular disease and age-related diseases, such as cancer and diabetes. Module 2 is dedicated to screen tomato and potato for variation in levels and/or composition of antioxidants, other health-related nutraceuticals and minerals. This involves targeted analyses of (i) antioxidant metabolites, such as carotenoids, vitamin C and E, flavonoids and other phenolics, (ii) folate and (iii) minerals, such as Fe and Zn, as well as an untargeted screening for (novel) antioxidants. Genes/QTLs responsible for the formation and accumulation of these nutraceuticals will be mapped and screened. Subsequently the molecular and regulatory mechanisms underlying the biosynthesis, accumulation and degradation of these metabolites, using all available X-omics technologies, will be elucidated. The most relevant traits (metabolites) and genotypes will be identified for further analysis and the influence of development (fruit, tuber) and growing conditions assessed on these traits. Tomato and potato collections will be profiled for neutraceuticals and the most relevant traits and lines identified and confirmed for breeding.
For further information visit the EU-SOL webpage.
