CALGARY — A University of Calgary research team is discovering a multitude of uses for what has been traditionally regarded as a low value byproduct of canola.
Through genetic manipulation, researchers have come up with canola plants that produce a protein that can fight infections in humans, another with anti-coagulant applications and an enzyme that could revolutionize industry.
Microbiologist Maurice Mol-oney, who leads the team, invented a technique that enables the plant to produce products not normally associated with canola.
“To date, nobody has taken the initiative to develop either the quality of meal or alternatively, getting other proteins in the meal which will be of higher value for non-traditional uses,” said Moloney.
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Stimulates immune system
In the medical field, a human protein created in the lab can be added to the canola genetic code. This protein stimulates the human immune system to produce interleukin, a naturally occurring substance found in white blood cells that fights infections and some cancers.
Another protein fused into canola genes prevents blood clots from forming.
Enzymes for food processing can also be manufactured from canola as an alternative to the more costly fermentation process, said Moloney.
Many industries use enzymes to trigger needed biochemical reactions. For example, an enzyme called xylanase breaks down wood to make pulp and is cleaner than using bleach.
Marketing plan
To sell the invention, a company called SemBioSys Genetics Inc. was formed this fall by the university through a technology transfer company known as University Technologies International.
Eventually, the company plans to contract growers to grow the desired varieties. Projects include growing a canola that produces the anti-coagulant protein. That may require only about 1,000 acres a year. But for enzyme production, thousands of acres may be needed.
Already, researchers have grown about a third of an acre near Lethbridge, Alta., of the canola producing the anticoagulant protein. The seeds have been recovered for further research and will be grown again next year.
Other oilseeds like flax, sunflower and safflower are also candidates for this type of work. However, transferring genes in sunflowers and safflowers is more difficult compared to flax and canola, said Moloney.
