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Wageningen, The Netherlands
March 7, 2001
In the near future, it will be possible not only to measure the quality of
vegetables, fruit and cut flowers throughout the chain but also to predict
that quality via the latest molecular techniques such as DNA chips. ATO and
Plant Research International have joined forces with this specific goal in
mind. As a result, organisations can now turn to a single address to have
methods developed that ensure quality in the chain is better monitored and
predicted.
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DNA chips allow for the measurement of the activity of thousand of genes in
just one analysis. They are therefore highly suitable for accurately
measuring the biological activity of agricultural and horticultural
products. The DNA activity in a certain product is not only a reflection of
the quality at that time. It also indicates which types of quality-influencing processes have just started in the product; processes
that will only be visible much later via other methods. This means that the
product's history can be measured swiftly and objectively, both during
cultivation and in the post-harvest phase.
Specially developed DNA chips make it possible, for example, to measure the
stage of dormancy or germination of plant material. |
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DNA chip: coloured spots
which show the activity of the genes |
Because the DNA which is
responsible for germination is already active, it is therefore possible to
show that the germination has begun long before any visible germination of
bulbs.
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DNA chips can also be used to effectively measure the ageing of cut flowers
throughout the chain. In doing so, the activity of ageing genes is mapped.
This information can be used for targeted breeding aimed at a better shelf
life, as well as to optimise factors such as post-harvest storage
conditions.
Thanks to the combination of ATO's product and chain expertise and Plant
Research International's genetic and physiological know-how, these special
DNA chips can now be developed faster and cheaper.
Plant Research
International has actually been producing DNA chips for several years,
although these were until now mainly used for research purposes. The ATO is
experienced in the development of measuring methods for determining product
quality in the chain. |
Hand with DNA chip: sheet of glass
with the genes to be measured on top |
As an extra spin-off of the cooperation, genes that are vital for the
quality of agricultural and horticultural products will be found more
quickly. Breeding companies can use this knowledge for developing varieties
with a higher product quality. Fast and precise tests are available for
auctions, wholesalers and the processing industry, providing them with
insight into product quality to support management decisions.
For further information:
Plant Research International ATO
Erik Toussaint
Head of External Communications
Tel: +31 (0) 317 47 70 17
Available illustrations:
- DNA chip: coloured spots which show the activity of the genes
- Hand with DNA chip: sheet of glass with the genes to be measured on top
Company news release
N3370 |
