Biotech Updates

Jasmine Rice Aromatic Gene Discovery

June 1, 2007

KDML 105, a well known traditional Thai jasmine rice variety, is sweet aromatic rice. Although rice aroma combines more than 200 volatile compounds, a compound named 2-acetyl-1-pyrroline (2AP) is the main constituent. The aromatic 2AP has also been found in other cereals, pandan, bread flower, fungi and bacteria. A group of Thai scientists at the Rice Gene Discovery Rice Science Center, Kasetsart University, Thailand has identified the DNA sequences that enhance the synthesis of 2-acetyl-1-pyrroline in plants and fungi. A patent application has been placed at the US Patent Office.

More information available at: http://dna.kps.ku.ac.th/rice/ and http://www.freepatentsonline.com/20060168679.html