Genetic discovery will boost barley breeding

JAMFS HUTTON: Scientists from institute can develop varieties

A group of Scottish scientists has discovered a genetic pathway to improve barley grain size and uniformity.

The work by researchers at the International Barley Hub, based at the James Hutton Institute in Invergowrie, could help plant breeders develop future varieties better suited to the needs of growers and distillers.

Researchers examined the genetic control of grain formation in barley, specifically looking at the role of a gene called VRS3. They found that a mutation in this gene improved grain uniformity in six-rowed barley.

The International Barley Hub’s chairman, Colin West, said the genetic discovery had huge potential to benefit both growers and industry.

“Maltsters have always had problems with six-row varieties to deliver malt to customer specification because of variation in grain size around the ear,” said Mr West.

“A more uniform size distribution leads to more consistent water uptake during steeping, a more even modification of corns during germination, and similarly more consistent drying and colour formation in the kilning process.

“All these changes help to produce higher quality malt, and a malt which is more suited to controlled milling in breweries and distilleries.

“If this VRS3 mutation can be combined with other malting qualities, which will take long-term investment by breeders, then it will give growers more choice in what they sow.”

The James Hutton Institute’s chief executive, Professor Colin Campbell, said: “Barley is one of the UK’S most valuable crops and so this discovery is important and likely to have significant economic impact.

“The International Barley Hub is showing again that research in this area can yield great returns on investing in basic understanding of barley.”

Barley is one of the UK’S most valuable crops.