Genetics of seed proteins:

The genetic basis for quantitative variation in several important legume seed proteins is being unravelled; in some cases, regulatory rather than structural loci exert quantitative control as major QTL. These studies are leading to the development of markers, facilitating the use of marker-assisted selection in breeding programmes; one of these markers now allows the facile screening of protease inhibitor genetic variants. Another study is focussed on a potential legume allergen, as part of a large EU project (www.grainlegumes.com).