One Way to Modify Starch

Starch is interconnected through α-1,6-glycosidic and α-1,4-glycosidic bonds. Due to the limitations of natural starch, which restrict its application, physical and other methods have been developed to modify the starch and improve its properties. The process of starch synthesis is regulated by various enzymes. The molecular biology of the synthesis has progressed rapidly and almost all genes have been identified, isolated, and cloned.

There are four enzymes that are more influential. Therefore, genetic engineering can be used to alter the ratios or levels of the four enzymes, thereby altering starch synthesis and ultimately improving starch. At present, there have been more research reports on the verification of gene functions by means of transgenics. To improve starch quality or create new types of starch, some researchers have also carried out directional regulation of starch. Preliminary results have been achieved in the modification of starch through genetic modification.

Fig.1 The synthesis pathway in plants of starch. (Niu, et al., 2019)

Our Services 

CD BioGlyco focuses on the optimization of gene editing techniques for starch modification. Starch synthesis is coordinately controlled by individual enzymes. The functions of some enzymes has been basically clarified through a large number of genetic and biochemical studies on the enzymes and their coding genes. We use gene editing technologies to specifically alter the sequence of the enzyme genes related to starch synthesis. We alter the sequence, expression, or functions of the target genes by up-regulating or repressing the expression of the gene or by targeted mutation of the gene. The gene mutation will affect the synthesis of starch in the plant and ultimately affect the starch structure, etc., or create novel starches, so as to achieve the purpose of starch improvement.

Fig.2 Our gene editing technology services. (CD BioGlyco)

Applications

• The genes for the various enzymes controlling starch synthesis in some species are currently unstudied. Gene editing techniques help researchers to explore the functions of starch synthesis-related enzyme genes in different species.
• Gene modification can alter the expression of genes in a species. Ultimately, it changes the starch structure and content, etc., for the purpose of starch modification.
• Modification of starch synthesis-related enzyme genes helps researchers breed high-quality varieties that produce diverse starch.

Advantages

• Simultaneous gene editing of multiple target sites can be realized. We edited multiple starch synthesis-related enzyme genes simultaneously by constructing multiple knockout vectors.
• We have established several well-established plant gene transformation platforms, including model organisms such as Arabidopsis thaliana, common food crops, etc.
• We use a wealth of gene editing techniques. Knockout, insertion, inhibition, and activation of target genes can be realized.

CD BioGlyco has been focusing on providing various optimized gene editing experimental protocols for many years. We have rich experience in overexpression vector construction, gene-targeted mutagenesis, etc. We provide a full set of gene editing services, which can save a lot of time and energy for our customers. Besides that, we also provide Physical Modification, Enzymatic Modification, and Chemical Modification services. If you have any need in this area, please feel free to contact us. We will provide support for every step of your project.

• Physical Modification
• Chemical Modification
• Enzymatic Modification
• ADP-Glucose Pyrophosphorylase (AGPase) Modification
• Starch Synthase Modification
• Starch-Branching Enzyme Modification
• Debranching Enzyme Modification