Superseding staples: Sequencing chia seed genome sprouts blueprint for future health research

14 Dec 2023 --- Despite the widespread attention chia seeds have garnered for their high nutritional value, sequencing its genome has only just started to uncover its potential as a climate-resistant crop and a curative remedy for several chronic disorders. Researchers from Oregon State University have created a blueprint for future research leveraging the molecular value of the chia genome and the prospect of genetic data mining for health applications.

Chia is considered a minor crop traditionally overlooked by scientists in favor of rice, wheat and maize — which contributed to the Green Revolution of the previous century — mitigating global hunger and saving millions of lives.

“Now we are at the point where long-term food and nutrition security requires diversifying the human diet by breeding and making genetic improvement to nutrient-rich, so-called minor crops like chia,” says Sushma Naithani, associate professor of senior research at the department of botany and plant pathology, Oregon State University.

The researchers note that global demand for minor crops such as chia, millet and yam is increasing. They are gaining importance beyond their nutritional value because they can grow in small areas unsuitable for traditional grain crops — a value mechanism for staving off the effects of climate change.

Triple threat by nutrition standards
From a one-dimensional perspective, chia seeds are high in fiber and contain healthy fats and proteins. They are usually blended into smoothies, yogurt, oatmeal, pancakes and granola bars for well-being. However, according to researchers of the current study published in Frontiers in Plant Science, chia genes can treat everything from high blood pressure to cancer.

“This research opens up possibilities for scientists to study chia seed through the lens of improving human health while at the same time continuing to further our knowledge of all the nutritional benefits of chia,” says Pankaj Jaiswal, professor in the department of botany and plant pathology, Oregon State University.

The scientists found 29 genes involved with the biosynthesis of polyunsaturated fatty acids and 93 genes that aid the gel-forming property of chia seeds. In addition, they found 2,707 highly expressed genes that can generate protein-derived small bioactive peptides.The chia genome can play an essential role in future research about health and nutrition. 

When the seed protein is digested in the intestinal tract, these small biopeptides are absorbed in the body and have the necessary elements to alleviate the chronic symptoms of type 2 diabetes and hypertension, among others.

The researchers hope the study’s findings will spark further interest in the region to grow chia. The climate in Oregon is similar to some parts of South America, where chia is primarily grown. Before this, researchers from the University of Kentucky initiated projects for chia seed growth in Oregon.

Sowing seeds of good health
The researchers posit that the polyunsaturated fatty acids in chia improve cardiovascular health and cholesterol and have anti-cancer properties. Its high fiber content helps stabilize blood glucose levels in type 2 diabetes patients and alleviates the symptoms of gastrointestinal tract-related diseases.

The protein in chia seeds has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties and can help treat high blood pressure. Furthermore, the genetic markers in chia can be used to breed varieties with enhanced traits to benefit human health.

Meanwhile, a study conducted by the Alliance of Biodiversity and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture supports the notion that seed access and improving seed quality can help overcome the challenges of climate change, resource conflicts and economic instability.

By Inga de Jong