Australian Researchers Test GM Wheat That Lowers Cholesterol

Scientists at Australia’s national research organization (CSIRO) have discovered a gene in oats that can be inserted in wheat to boost a cholesterol-reducing soluble fiber known as betaglucan. Barley and oats are rich in betaglucan, but wheat is not. The researchers discovered very small differences in the enzyme that makes betaglucan in wheat and oats, but those differences – involving a single amino acid – can change the structure and make it more soluble. They are now growing wheat crops that include the gene that gives oats their cholesterol-lowering qualities. They will test the flour made from the modified wheat to see if the bread is acceptable – and can lower cholesterol.