Chinese scientists have successfully genetically modified rice to produce coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), an essential molecule for human health. This breakthrough could revolutionize nutritional approaches by offering a plant-based source rich in CoQ10.
Led by Professor Chen Xiaoya and Professor Gao Caixia, the team used targeted gene editing to modify five amino acids of the Coq1 enzyme in rice. This modification enabled the creation of rice varieties capable of synthesizing CoQ10, a crucial molecule for heart protection and functioning as a fat-soluble antioxidant.
CoQ10 plays a key role in the mitochondrial electron transport chain. While humans naturally synthesize CoQ10, cereals like rice mainly produce CoQ9, which contains one less isoprene unit. This difference motivated researchers to explore ways to increase CoQ10 content in plant-based foods.
Using diverse plant collections, the researchers analyzed over 1,000 species of land plants. They discovered that CoQ10 is an ancestral trait of flowering plants, but some plant families, such as grasses, primarily produce CoQ9. The use of machine learning helped identify five amino acid sites crucial for chain length.
After gene editing, the rice plants mainly synthesized CoQ10, with production reaching up to 5 µg per grain of rice. This success demonstrates the efficiency and safety of gene editing for crop improvement.
The development of CoQ10-producing rice opens new perspectives for enriching the diet with this essential molecule. This study also illustrates how big data and artificial intelligence can be used for genetic crop improvement.
This innovation could have a significant impact on public health by providing an affordable and sustainable dietary source of CoQ10. It represents an important step in using cutting-edge technologies to address global nutritional challenges.
What is coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)?
Coenzyme Q10, or CoQ10, is a molecule present in all human body cells. It plays a crucial role in energy production within mitochondria, the cell's powerhouses.
In addition to its role in the electron transport chain, CoQ10 acts as a powerful antioxidant. It protects cells from oxidative damage, which can lead to various diseases, including heart disease.
CoQ10 is naturally synthesized by the human body, but its production decreases with age. This is why CoQ10 supplements are often recommended for elderly individuals or those suffering from certain diseases.
Dietary sources of CoQ10 include meat, fish, and nuts. However, the amount of CoQ10 in these foods is relatively low, hence the interest in developing CoQ10-enriched foods, such as genetically modified rice.
How does gene editing work in plants?
Gene editing is a technology that allows precise modification of an organism's genome. It uses tools like CRISPR-Cas9 to cut DNA at specific locations, enabling the addition, deletion, or modification of genes.
In the case of CoQ10-producing rice, researchers used gene editing to modify five amino acids of the Coq1 enzyme. This modification allowed the rice to synthesize CoQ10 instead of CoQ9.
Gene editing offers several advantages over traditional plant breeding methods. It is more precise, faster, and can be used to introduce specific traits without affecting other plant characteristics.
This technology has the potential to revolutionize agriculture by enabling the development of more nutritious, disease-resistant, and climate-adapted crops.