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Noor M, Kiran A, Shahbaz M, Sanaullah M, Wakeel A. Root system architecture associated zinc variability in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). Sci Rep 2024; 14:1781. [PMID: 38245570 PMCID: PMC10799890 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-52338-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Root system architecture (RSA) plays a fundamental role in nutrient uptake, including zinc (Zn). Wheat grains are inheritably low in Zn. As Zn is an essential nutrient for plants, improving its uptake will not only improve their growth and yield but also the nutritional quality of staple grains. A rhizobox study followed by a pot study was conducted to evaluate Zn variability with respect to RSA and its impact on grain Zn concentration. The grain Zn content of one hundred wheat varieties was determined and grown in rhizoboxes with differential Zn (no Zn and 0.05 mg L-1 ZnSO4). Seedlings were harvested 12 days after sowing, and root images were taken and analyzed by SmartRoot software. Using principal component analysis, twelve varieties were screened out based on vigorous and weaker RSA with high and low grain Zn content. The screened varieties were grown in pots with (11 mg ZnSO4 kg-1 soil) and without Zn application to the soil. Zinc translocation, localization, and agronomic parameters were recorded after harvesting at maturity. In the rhizobox experiment, 4% and 8% varieties showed higher grain Zn content with vigorous and weaker RSA, respectively, while 45% and 43% varieties had lower grain Zn content with vigorous and weaker RSA. However, the pot experiment revealed that varieties with vigorous root system led to higher grain yield, though the grain Zn concentration were variable, while all varieties with weaker root system had lower yield as well as grain Zn concentration. Zincol-16 revealed the highest Zn concentration (28.07 mg kg-1) and grain weight (47.9 g). Comparatively higher level of Zn was localized in the aleurone layer than in the embryonic region and endosperm. It is concluded that genetic variability exists among wheat varieties for RSA and grain Zn content, with a significant correlation. Therefore, RSA attributes are promising targets for the Zn biofortification breeding program. However, Zn localization in endosperm needs to be further investigated to achieve the goal of reducing Zn malnutrition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehwish Noor
- Department of Botany, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, 38040, Pakistan
| | - Aysha Kiran
- Department of Botany, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, 38040, Pakistan.
| | - Muhammad Shahbaz
- Department of Botany, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, 38040, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Sanaullah
- Institute of Soil and Environmental Sciences, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, 38040, Pakistan
| | - Abdul Wakeel
- Institute of Soil and Environmental Sciences, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, 38040, Pakistan.
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Abayomi J, Charnley M, Stone G, Lane K, Stevenson L, Davies I, Webb R. Editorial: nutrition at key stages of the lifecycle. Proc Nutr Soc 2024:1-7. [PMID: 38240093 DOI: 10.1017/s0029665124000089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
Nutritional requirements of individuals vary across the lifecycle, according to activity, age and gender. To optimize human health, consideration of nutritional priorities at each stage is needed. This conference brought together multidisciplinary experts in maternal and child nutrition and health, cardiometabolic and plant-based nutrition and dietitians involved in the care of vulnerable populations, plus nutritional metabolism, health and ageing. The presentations highlighted the most important nutrition research in these areas, updating knowledge and suggesting how dietary advice and policy could be adapted to incorporate research findings. With the global increase in non-communicable disease (NCD) and nutrition being considered as a key modifiable risk factor for the prevention and management of NCD, this conference was much needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Abayomi
- School of Medicine & Nutrition, Faculty of Health, Social Care and Medicine, Edge Hill University, OrmskirkL39 4PQ, UK
| | - Margaret Charnley
- School of Health & Sport Sciences, Liverpool Hope University, Liverpool, UK
| | - Genevieve Stone
- School of Medicine & Nutrition, Faculty of Health, Social Care and Medicine, Edge Hill University, OrmskirkL39 4PQ, UK
| | - Katie Lane
- Research Institute for Sport and Exercise Sciences (RISES), Faculty of Science, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK
| | - Leo Stevenson
- School of Health & Sport Sciences, Liverpool Hope University, Liverpool, UK
| | - Ian Davies
- Research Institute for Sport and Exercise Sciences (RISES), Faculty of Science, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK
| | - Richard Webb
- School of Health & Sport Sciences, Liverpool Hope University, Liverpool, UK
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Lowe NM. Fortification or biofortification: complimentary strategies or duplication of effort? Proc Nutr Soc 2024:1-10. [PMID: 38197143 DOI: 10.1017/s0029665124000041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
Micronutrient deficiencies continue to be a global concern, with the most common deficiencies being vitamin A, iron, zinc and B vitamins (folate and B12). Addressing this requires strategies that are scalable and equitable such that they reach all members of a population irrespective of socioeconomic status and geography. Fortification and biofortification offer potential large-scale solutions, however each have strengths and limitations depending on the context, particularly the cultural and political factors that may create barriers or opportunities for effectiveness. Planning how to target scarce resources for maximum impact requires an in-depth knowledge and understanding of local food systems and market dynamics, alongside strong government policy and legislative support. A food fortification programme was launched in Pakistan in 2016, supported by UK Aid and designed to address the high prevalence of vitamin A, iron and zinc deficiency, particularly in women and children. In the same year, the first zinc biofortified variety of wheat, Zincol-2016, was released in Pakistan, supported and developed through the HarvestPlus programme in collaboration with the Pakistan National Agriculture Research Centre. This review explores the challenges faced by fortification and biofortification, initiated independently, (but around the same time) in Pakistan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Mary Lowe
- Centre for Global Development, University of Central Lancashire, PrestonPR1 2HE, UK
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Gupta OP, Singh A, Pandey V, Sendhil R, Khan MK, Pandey A, Kumar S, Hamurcu M, Ram S, Singh G. Critical assessment of wheat biofortification for iron and zinc: a comprehensive review of conceptualization, trends, approaches, bioavailability, health impact, and policy framework. Front Nutr 2024; 10:1310020. [PMID: 38239835 PMCID: PMC10794668 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2023.1310020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Addressing global hidden hunger, particularly in women of childbearing age and children under five, presents a significant challenge, with a focus on iron (Fe) and zinc (Zn) deficiency. Wheat, a staple crop in the developing world, is crucial for addressing this issue through biofortification efforts. While extensive research has explored various approaches to enhance Fe and Zn content in wheat, there remains a scarcity of comprehensive data on their bioavailability and impact on human and animal health. This systematic review examines the latest trends in wheat biofortification approaches, assesses bioavailability, evaluates the effects of biofortified wheat on health outcomes in humans and animals, and analyzes global policy frameworks. Additionally, a meta-analysis of per capita daily Fe and Zn intake from average wheat consumption was conducted. Notably, breeding-based approaches have led to the release of 40 biofortified wheat varieties for commercial cultivation in India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Mexico, Bolivia, and Nepal, but this progress has overlooked Africa, a particularly vulnerable continent. Despite these advancements, there is a critical need for large-scale systematic investigations into the nutritional impact of biofortified wheat, indicating a crucial area for future research. This article can serve as a valuable resource for multidisciplinary researchers engaged in wheat biofortification, aiding in the refinement of ongoing and future strategies to achieve the Sustainable Development Goal of eradicating hunger and malnutrition by 2030.
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Affiliation(s)
- Om Prakash Gupta
- Division of Quality and Basic Sciences, ICAR-Indian Institute of Wheat and Barley Research, Karnal, Haryana, India
| | - Ajeet Singh
- Division of Quality and Basic Sciences, ICAR-Indian Institute of Wheat and Barley Research, Karnal, Haryana, India
| | - Vanita Pandey
- Division of Quality and Basic Sciences, ICAR-Indian Institute of Wheat and Barley Research, Karnal, Haryana, India
| | - Ramadas Sendhil
- Division of Social Sciences, ICAR-Indian Institute of Wheat and Barley Research, Karnal, Haryana, India
| | - Mohd. Kamran Khan
- Department of Soil Science and Plant Nutrition, Selcuk University, Konya, Türkiye
| | - Anamika Pandey
- Department of Soil Science and Plant Nutrition, Selcuk University, Konya, Türkiye
| | - Sunil Kumar
- Division of Quality and Basic Sciences, ICAR-Indian Institute of Wheat and Barley Research, Karnal, Haryana, India
| | - Mehmet Hamurcu
- Department of Soil Science and Plant Nutrition, Selcuk University, Konya, Türkiye
| | - Sewa Ram
- Division of Quality and Basic Sciences, ICAR-Indian Institute of Wheat and Barley Research, Karnal, Haryana, India
| | - Gyanendra Singh
- Division of Quality and Basic Sciences, ICAR-Indian Institute of Wheat and Barley Research, Karnal, Haryana, India
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Ceballos-Rasgado M, Ajmal S, Mahboob U, Ander EL, Zia M, Moran VH, Joy EJM, Zaman M, Ohly H, Lowe NM. Farmers' and millers' experiences and attitudes towards the production and processing of zinc biofortified wheat in Pakistan: a mixed methods study. Front Nutr 2023; 10:1158156. [PMID: 37941768 PMCID: PMC10629276 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2023.1158156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Zinc biofortified wheat may be a sustainable strategy to increase zinc intake in areas where fortification and dietary diversification are not feasible or are limited by household purchasing power. This convergent mixed methods study aimed to explore the farmers' and millers' experiences and attitudes towards the production and processing of zinc biofortified wheat in Pakistan. Methods A telephone survey was conducted with farmers (n = 418) who were provided with Zincol-2016 biofortified wheat seed for the 2019-2020 growing season, as part of a wheat grain micronutrient mapping study across Punjab Province. The survey explored the farmers' experiences of growing Zincol-2016 and whether they opted to grow it again in the subsequent season. Semi-structured focus group discussions were undertaken in a separate group of farmers in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) province (n = 12) who grew Zincol-2016 for the BiZiFED2 RCT. Millers were also interviewed in KP, both those who had processed Zincol-2016 for the trial (n = 12) and those who had no experience of processing biofortified wheat (n = 12). Survey data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and transcripts of focus groups were analyzed using thematic analysis. Results Nearly half of farmers who responded to the survey (47%) re-cultivated Zincol-2016 in the following season. The drivers for Zincol-2016 re-cultivation were seed availability (100%), grain yield and growth resistance (98%), quality of the flour from the previous harvest (97%) and nutritional benefit (94.5%). Discussions with farmers suggested that the main motivators for potential scale-up of biofortified wheat were the perceived quality of the grain, wheat, and flour. Millers saw it as an opportunity to expand their business. Farmers and millers valued the health benefits of the wheat. Challenges for scale-up include the need of additional support to produce it, unfamiliarity with the biofortification process, production costs, and external threats to the supply chain. Conclusion Farmers and millers showed a strong implicit preference for Zincol-2016 over alternative varieties. Crop performance and product yield were the most cited motivators for growing Zincol-2016. Farmers and millers are willing to produce and process biofortified wheat if financial and educational support is provided.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Usman Mahboob
- Institute of Health Professions Education and Research, Khyber Medical University, Peshawar, Pakistan
| | - E. Louise Ander
- Inorganic Geochemistry, Centre for Environmental Geochemistry, British Geological Survey, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Munir Zia
- Research & Development Department, Fauji Fertilizer Company Ltd, Rawalpindi, Pakistan
| | - Victoria Hall Moran
- Centre for Global Development, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, United Kingdom
| | - Edward J. M. Joy
- Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Mukhtiar Zaman
- Department of Pulmonology, Rehman Medical Institute, Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
| | - Heather Ohly
- Centre for Global Development, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, United Kingdom
| | - Nicola M. Lowe
- Centre for Global Development, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, United Kingdom
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Fleming DEB, Kaiser MG, Rankin BD, Schenkels KMM. Assessment of X-ray fluorescence capabilities for nail and hair matrices through zinc measurement in keratin reference materials. J Trace Elem Med Biol 2023; 77:127136. [PMID: 36716562 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtemb.2023.127136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Novel and emerging biomarkers of zinc status are being developed to help study and address zinc deficiency around the world. Two potential biomarkers, nail and hair, involve the measurement of zinc from easily accessible keratin-based components of the body. Portable X-ray fluorescence (XRF) is a relatively new approach to the assessment of zinc in nail or hair, and has a number of compelling advantages compared with other techniques. The aim of the current study was to test the ability of XRF to measure zinc in keratinized reference materials (RMs) designed to simulate nail and hair. METHODS Four Keratin Matrix RMs were prepared and characterized for numerous trace elements by the New York State Department of Health's Wadsworth Center. The Keratin Matrix RMs consisted of powdered samples of caprine (goat) horns pooled from several animals. Concentrations of zinc, as assessed by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), were similar to what would be expected from human nail or hair tissues. Repeat measurements of the RMs were made using a portable XRF system. The XRF zinc results were compared with the ICP-MS zinc concentrations. Three different approaches to quantifying the zinc content by XRF were performed: (1) zinc signal to total signal ratio, (2) zinc signal to sulfur signal ratio, and (3) system output zinc concentration. RESULTS The portable XRF results from a given RM were found to be consistent across repeat trials under all three approaches to XRF quantitation. Precision, calculated as the relative standard deviation of repeat measurements ranged from an average result of 0.8 % (using the system output zinc concentration method) to 6.1 % (using the zinc signal to sulfur signal ratio method). Measurement of the RMs provided XRF zinc results which scaled well with ICP-MS zinc concentration, particularly when using the XRF zinc to total and system zinc concentration methods. A Bland-Altman plot showed that the XRF system zinc concentration output exceeded the ICP-MS zinc concentration by, on average, 10.2 % ± 1.2 %. CONCLUSION Overall, both accuracy and precision of measurement were found to be promising for portable XRF, provided appropriate conversions to concentration are introduced. The results of this study indicate that portable XRF is an effective and dependable method of assessing zinc concentration in keratinized tissue RMs. This will have implications for the future use of portable XRF to monitor zinc status in humans through measurements of nail and hair.
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Affiliation(s)
- David E B Fleming
- Physics Department, Mount Allison University, Sackville, New Brunswick, Canada.
| | - Michaela G Kaiser
- Physics Department, Mount Allison University, Sackville, New Brunswick, Canada
| | - Bryn D Rankin
- Physics Department, Mount Allison University, Sackville, New Brunswick, Canada
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Frederickson CJ, Fleming DEB, Asael D, Zaman M, Ferguson R, Kaiser MG, Rankin BD, Schenkels KMM, Hess AIT, Scott AR, Frederickson CJM, Sinclair JK, Lowe NM. Single hair analysis by X-ray fluorescence spectrometry detects small changes in dietary zinc intake: A nested randomized controlled trial. Front Nutr 2023; 10:1139017. [PMID: 37032778 PMCID: PMC10080032 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2023.1139017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to determine whether X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (XRF) could be used to detect changes in hair zinc concentration in response to a modest daily increase in zinc from the consumption of zinc biofortified wheat flour. This study was conducted as part of an effectiveness trial (BiZiFED2) exploring the potential for zinc biofortified wheat to alleviate zinc deficiency in adolescent girls aged 10-16 years in Pakistan (trial registration ID ISRCTN17107812). A randomized controlled design was used. Participants received either control flour or zinc biofortified flour for 6 months. Consumption of biofortified flour resulted in an average daily increase in dietary zinc intake of 1.5 mg per day above that of the control flour. At baseline and at the end of the intervention, individual hair samples (control: n = 59, intervention: n = 64) were analyzed for zinc and sulfur content by XRF. Data were analyzed using linear mixed effects models to contrast between trial groups the changes from baseline to end point and also to compare baseline and end point values within each trial group. Increases from baseline to endpoint in both sulfur and zinc were significantly greater in the intervention group compared to control (sulfur counts. CONTROL baseline = 119.87 ± 20.33 and endpoint = 121.58 ± 23.58/intervention: baseline = 122.67 ± 24.19 and endpoint = 131.60 ± 21.34); (Zinc counts. CONTROL baseline = 50.88 ± 14.33 and endpoint = 54.82 ± 14.61/intervention: baseline = 49.61 ± 10.77 and endpoint = 58.79 ± 12.20). For these parameters, there were also significant increases from baseline to endpoint in the intervention group but not in control. Furthermore, for Zn:S count ratio there were no differences in terms of the magnitude of the change from baseline to endpoint in the control group, although significant increases from baseline to endpoint were evident in the intervention group (Zn:S count ratio. CONTROL baseline = 0.42 ± 0.10 and endpoint = 0.45 ± 0.08/intervention: baseline = 0.41 ± 0.08 and endpoint = 0.45 ± 0.08). A modest increase in dietary zinc over 6 months resulted in a detectable increase in both sulfur and zinc counts in individual hairs measured using XRF. This offers a sensitive, non-invasive method to monitor changes within subjects in response to dietary zinc interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Dan Asael
- Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Mukhtiar Zaman
- Pulmonology Department, Rehman Medical College, Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
| | | | | | - Bryn D. Rankin
- Physics Department, Mount Allison University, Sackville, NB, Canada
| | | | | | | | | | - Jonathan K. Sinclair
- UCLan Research Centre for Global Development, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, Lancashire, United Kingdom
| | - Nicola M. Lowe
- UCLan Research Centre for Global Development, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, Lancashire, United Kingdom
- *Correspondence: Nicola M. Lowe
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Ali A, Manzoor MF, Ahmad N, Aadil RM, Qin H, Siddique R, Riaz S, Ahmad A, Korma SA, Khalid W, Aizhong L. The Burden of Cancer, Government Strategic Policies, and Challenges in Pakistan: A Comprehensive Review. Front Nutr 2022; 9:940514. [PMID: 35938114 PMCID: PMC9355152 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2022.940514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer is a severe condition characterized by uncontrolled cell division and increasing reported mortality and diagnostic cases. In 2040, an estimated 28.4 million cancer cases are expected to happen globally. In 2020, an estimated 19.3 million new cancer cases (18.1 million excluding non-melanoma skin cancer) had been diagnosed worldwide, with around 10.0 million cancer deaths. Breast cancer cases have increased by 2.26 million, lung cancer by 2.21 million, stomach by 1.089 million, liver by 0.96 million, and colon cancer by 1.93 million. Cancer is becoming more prevalent in Pakistan, with 19 million new cancer cases recorded in 2020. Food adulteration, gutkha, paan, and nutritional deficiencies are major cancer risk factors that interplay with cancer pathogenesis in this country. Government policies and legislation, cancer treatment challenges, and prevention must be revised seriously. This review presents the current cancer epidemiology in Pakistan to better understand cancer basis. It summarizes current cancer risk factors, causes, and the strategies and policies of the country against cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anwar Ali
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Epidemiology, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Food and Nutrition Society, Gilgit Baltistan, Pakistan
| | | | - Nazir Ahmad
- Department of Nutritional Science, Government College University Faisalabad, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Rana Muhammad Aadil
- National Institute of Food Science and Technology, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Hong Qin
- School of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Rabia Siddique
- Department of Chemistry, Government College University Faisalabad, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Sakhawat Riaz
- Department of Home Economics, Government College University Faisalabad, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Arslan Ahmad
- Department of Home Economics, Government College University Faisalabad, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Sameh A. Korma
- Department of Food Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Zagazig, Egypt
| | - Waseem Khalid
- Department of Food Sciences, Government College University, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Liu Aizhong
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Epidemiology, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha, China
- *Correspondence: Liu Aizhong
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Gupta S, Zaman M, Fatima S, Shahzad B, Brazier AKM, Moran VH, Broadley MR, Zia MH, Bailey EH, Wilson L, Khan IM, Sinclair JK, Lowe NM. The Impact of Consuming Zinc-Biofortified Wheat Flour on Haematological Indices of Zinc and Iron Status in Adolescent Girls in Rural Pakistan: A Cluster-Randomised, Double-Blind, Controlled Effectiveness Trial. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14081657. [PMID: 35458222 PMCID: PMC9026921 DOI: 10.3390/nu14081657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Revised: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Biofortification of wheat is potentially a sustainable strategy to improve zinc intake; however, evidence of its effectiveness is needed. A household-based, double-blind, cluster-randomized controlled trial (RCT) was conducted in rural Pakistan. The primary objective was to examine the effects of consuming zinc-biofortified wheat flour on the zinc status of adolescent girls aged 10−16 years (n = 517). Households received either zinc-biofortified flour or control flour for 25 weeks; blood samples and 24-h dietary recalls were collected for mineral status and zinc intake assessment. Plasma concentrations of zinc (PZC), selenium and copper were measured via inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry and serum ferritin (SF), transferrin receptor, alpha 1-acid glycoprotein and C-reactive protein by immunoassay. Consumption of the zinc-biofortified flour resulted in a moderate increase in intakes of zinc (1.5 mg/day) and iron (1.2 mg/day). This had no significant effect on PZC (control 641.6 ± 95.3 µg/L vs. intervention 643.8 ± 106.2 µg/L; p = 0.455), however there was an overall reduction in the rate of storage iron deficiency (SF < 15 µg/L; control 11.8% vs. 1.0% intervention). Consumption of zinc-biofortified flour increased zinc intake (21%) but was not associated with an increase in PZC. Establishing a sensitive biomarker of zinc status is an ongoing priority.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swarnim Gupta
- Lancashire Research Centre for Global Development, University of Central Lancashire, Preston PR1 2HE, UK; (S.G.); (A.K.M.B.); (V.H.M.); (J.K.S.)
| | - Mukhtiar Zaman
- Department of Pulmonology, Rehman Medical Institute, Peshawar 25000, Pakistan;
| | - Sadia Fatima
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Khyber Medical University, Peshawar 25100, Pakistan; (S.F.); (B.S.)
| | - Babar Shahzad
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Khyber Medical University, Peshawar 25100, Pakistan; (S.F.); (B.S.)
| | - Anna K. M. Brazier
- Lancashire Research Centre for Global Development, University of Central Lancashire, Preston PR1 2HE, UK; (S.G.); (A.K.M.B.); (V.H.M.); (J.K.S.)
| | - Victoria H. Moran
- Lancashire Research Centre for Global Development, University of Central Lancashire, Preston PR1 2HE, UK; (S.G.); (A.K.M.B.); (V.H.M.); (J.K.S.)
| | - Martin R. Broadley
- School of Biosciences, Sutton Bonington Campus, University of Nottingham, Leicester NG7 2RD, UK; (M.R.B.); (E.H.B.); (L.W.)
- Rothamsted Research, West Common, Harpenden AL5 2JQ, UK
| | - Munir H. Zia
- Research and Development Department, Fauji Fertilizer Co., Ltd., Rawalpindi 46000, Pakistan;
| | - Elizabeth H. Bailey
- School of Biosciences, Sutton Bonington Campus, University of Nottingham, Leicester NG7 2RD, UK; (M.R.B.); (E.H.B.); (L.W.)
| | - Lolita Wilson
- School of Biosciences, Sutton Bonington Campus, University of Nottingham, Leicester NG7 2RD, UK; (M.R.B.); (E.H.B.); (L.W.)
| | - Iqbal M. Khan
- Department of Pathology, Rehman Medical Institute, Peshawar 25000, Pakistan;
| | - Jonathan K. Sinclair
- Lancashire Research Centre for Global Development, University of Central Lancashire, Preston PR1 2HE, UK; (S.G.); (A.K.M.B.); (V.H.M.); (J.K.S.)
| | - Nicola M. Lowe
- Lancashire Research Centre for Global Development, University of Central Lancashire, Preston PR1 2HE, UK; (S.G.); (A.K.M.B.); (V.H.M.); (J.K.S.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +44-(0)-1772-89-3599
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Wan Y, Stewart T, Amrahli M, Evans J, Sharp P, Govindan V, Hawkesford MJ, Shewry PR. Localisation of iron and zinc in grain of biofortified wheat. J Cereal Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcs.2022.103470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Community Perceptions of Zinc Biofortified Flour during an Intervention Study in Pakistan. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14040817. [PMID: 35215467 PMCID: PMC8876608 DOI: 10.3390/nu14040817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Revised: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Zinc-biofortified flour may be a cost-effective approach to improve zinc status of populations in low-resource settings. The success of biofortification programmes is subject to acceptability and uptake by consumers. This study explored community leaders’ and community members’ (n = 72) experiences and attitudes towards the flour provided during a cluster randomised controlled trial of zinc biofortified wheat in rural Pakistan (BiZiFED2). Focus group discussions (n = 12) were conducted and thematic analysis applied using an inductive, semantic, contextualist approach. Five themes were identified: (1) Contribution to food security; (2) Better sensory and baking properties than local flour; (3) Perceived health benefits; (4) Willingness to pay for the flour; and (5) Importance of trusted promoters/suppliers. Although the participants were blind to whether they had received control or biofortified flour, referred to collectively as “study flour”, the results indicated that the study flour performed well in terms of its taste and bread making qualities, with no adverse reports from participants in either arm of the BIZIFED2 RCT. Participants suggested that they would buy the biofortified wheat if this was available at a fair price due to perceived health benefits, reporting positive sensory characteristics and cooking attributes when compared to the flour available in the local markets. Overall, there was a positive reception of the programme and flour among the participants, and members of the community hoped for its continuation and expansion.
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Joukhadar R, Thistlethwaite R, Trethowan RM, Hayden MJ, Stangoulis J, Cu S, Daetwyler HD. Genomic selection can accelerate the biofortification of spring wheat. TAG. THEORETICAL AND APPLIED GENETICS. THEORETISCHE UND ANGEWANDTE GENETIK 2021; 134:3339-3350. [PMID: 34254178 DOI: 10.1007/s00122-021-03900-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
KEY MESSAGE Genomic selection enabled accurate prediction for the concentration of 13 nutritional element traits in wheat. Wheat biofortification is one of the most sustainable strategies to alleviate mineral deficiency in human diets. Here, we investigated the potential of genomic selection using BayesR and Bayesian ridge regression (BRR) models to predict grain yield (YLD) and the concentration of 13 nutritional elements in grains (B, Ca, Co, Cu, Fe, K, Mg, Mn, Mo, Na, Ni, P and Zn) using a population of 1470 spring wheat lines. The lines were grown in replicated field trials with two times of sowing (TOS) at 3 locations (Narrabri-NSW, all lines; Merredin-WA and Horsham-VIC, 200 core lines). Narrow-sense heritability across environments (locations/TOS) ranged from 0.09 to 0.45. Co, K, Na and Ca showed low to negative genetic correlations with other traits including YLD, while the remaining traits were negatively correlated with YLD. When all environments were included in the reference population, medium to high prediction accuracy was observed for the different traits across environments. BayesR had higher average prediction accuracy for mineral concentrations (r = 0.55) compared to BRR (r = 0.48) across all traits and environments but both methods had comparable accuracies for YLD. We also investigated the utility of one or two locations (reference locations) to predict the remaining location(s), as well as the ability of one TOS to predict the other. Under these scenarios, BayesR and BRR showed comparable performance but with lower prediction accuracy compared to the scenario of predicting reference environments for new lines. Our study demonstrates the potential of genomic selection for enriching wheat grain with nutritional elements in biofortification breeding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reem Joukhadar
- Agriculture Victoria, Centre for AgriBioscience, AgriBio, Bundoora, VIC, Australia.
| | - Rebecca Thistlethwaite
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Plant Breeding Institute, Sydney Institute of Agriculture, The University of Sydney, Narrabri, NSW, Australia
| | - Richard M Trethowan
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Plant Breeding Institute, Sydney Institute of Agriculture, The University of Sydney, Narrabri, NSW, Australia
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Plant Breeding Institute, Sydney Institute of Agriculture, The University of Sydney, Cobbitty, NSW, Australia
| | - Matthew J Hayden
- Agriculture Victoria, Centre for AgriBioscience, AgriBio, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
- School of Applied Systems Biology, La Trobe University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
| | - James Stangoulis
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Sturt Road, Bedford Park, South Australia, 5042, Australia
| | - Suong Cu
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Sturt Road, Bedford Park, South Australia, 5042, Australia
| | - Hans D Daetwyler
- Agriculture Victoria, Centre for AgriBioscience, AgriBio, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
- School of Applied Systems Biology, La Trobe University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
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Abstract
The aim of this review paper is to explore the strategies employed to tackle micronutrient deficiencies with illustrations from field-based experience. Hidden hunger is the presence of multiple micronutrient deficiencies (particularly iron, zinc, iodine and vitamin A), which can occur without a deficit in energy intake as a result of consuming an energy-dense, but nutrient-poor diet. It is estimated that it affects more than two billion people worldwide, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where there is a reliance on low-cost food staples and where the diversity of the diet is limited. Finding a way to improve the nutritional quality of diets for the poorest people is central to meeting the UN sustainable development goals particularly sustainable development goal 2: end hunger, achieve food security and improved nutrition and promote sustainable agriculture. As we pass the midpoint of the UN's Decade for Action on Nutrition, it is timely to reflect on progress towards achieving sustainable development goal 2 and the strategies to reduce hidden hunger. Many low- and middle-income countries are falling behind national nutrition targets, and this has been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic as well as other recent shocks to the global food system which have disproportionately impacted the world's most vulnerable communities. Addressing inequalities within the food system must be central to developing a sustainable, cost-effective strategy for improving food quality that delivers benefit to the seldom heard and marginalised communities.
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