Scientists unravel dietary fiber genes

Scientists at the Australian Centre for Plant Functional Genomics, Waite Campus, University of Adelaide, have succeeded in identifying the genes involved in making a key component of the dietary fiber found in cereals. This is a breakthrough in grain breeding that has come after more than three decades of extensive research by institutes all over the world, and is expected to bring about a new and revolutionary range of health foods. The discovery will enable researchers to increase the amount of fiber in foods with potentially high human health benefits and these could be used to target medical conditions such as colorectal cancer, obesity, non-insulin-dependent diabetes, high serum cholesterol and cardiovascular disease to name a few.

Dietary fiber is found in cereals, fruits and vegetables. It is made up of the indigestible compounds of plants that pass relatively unchanged through our stomach and intestines. The main role of fiber is to provide roughage that keeps the digestive system healthy. It also contributes to other processes, such as stabilizing glucose, lowering cholesterol levels and reducing disease risk.  Recently a research conducted in Toronto, Canada, has been able to develop a combination of natural fibers called PolyGlycoplex or PGX, which helps in reducing weight, stabilizing blood sugar and lowering cholesterol.

Another parallel research has shown that antioxidants in wheat, allied with dietary fiber, are very useful in reducing the risk of colon cancer among humans. All in all, its been understood that dietary fiber is an important factor in preventing various disease and maintaining a healthy life. The new genetic breakthrough coupled with other researches could help in creating better awareness about dietary fiber and formulating a revolutionary healthy diet for people worldwide.

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