Friday, October 11, 2013

McGill team finds sprout gene


Researchers at McGill University, Montreal, have discovered a gene and additional genetic factors that prompt wheat, barley and other grains to sprout under warm and moist conditions.

Their discovery holds a number of implications for cereal breeders seeking either to develop varieties that won’t sprout before harvest or varieties that have better germination rates.

The research was conducted by Prof. Jaswinder Singh and his PhD candidate student, Surinder Singh.