Influence of Genotype and Environment on Wheat Grain Fructan Content

Fructans are naturally occurring plant oligo- and polysaccharides composed of fructose molecules. These polymers are known to serve as carbon stores and as a potential form of protection against water deficit. In addition to serving valuable roles in plant growth and development, the characteristics of fructans have potentially beneficial effects on human health. Approximately 15% of flowering plant species contain fructans, including wheat.

Genotypic variation for inulin, a specific type of fructan, in wheat is known to exist. To date, no published studies have examined other factors influencing variation of total wheat grain fructan content. Utilizing materials from a multi-year, multi-environment study, factors influencing variation of wheat grain fructan content in 289 winter wheat varieties will be examined.

Information regarding the effects of genotype and environment on wheat grain fructan will be utilized for implementing recurrent genomic selection in winter wheat and guiding future decisions regarding breeding methodologies for total fructan content in wheat.  A greater understanding of the effects of genotype and environment on fructan content will have implications for breeders, producers, and the food industry.