Identification of Genes Related to Saponin Synthesis in Chenopodium Quinoa

Authors

Chris Nye, Brigham Young University
Dr. Jeff Maughan, Brigham Young University

Keywords

saponin synthesis, Chenopodium quinoa, grain

College

Life Sciences

Department

Plant and Wildlife Sciences

Abstract

Chenopodium quinoa, commonly known as quinoa, is a vital crop to the subsistence farmers of the Altiplano region of South America. Quinoa has several unique characteristics which contribute to its ability to grow in a variety of harsh conditions found in the high altitudes and heat of South America. Quinoa has high drought tolerance, salt tolerance, as well as a natural resistance to birds and other pests. This protection comes from a coating of a wax-like substance, called saponin, found on the surface of quinoa seeds (Ward, 2001).

Recommended Citation

Nye, Chris and Maughan, Dr. Jeff (2013) "Identification of Genes Related to Saponin Synthesis in Chenopodium Quinoa," Journal of Undergraduate Research: Vol. 2013: Iss. 1, Article 1564.
Available at: https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/jur/vol2013/iss1/1564