Developmental Physiology Dr. Pascal Hunziker
Novel Crops for Global Food Security
I am interested in advancing genome engineering to develop new crops that address global challenges, helping diversify and strengthen food systems. Tropaeolum tuberosum (mashua), an extremely high-yielding, nutritious but underutilized Andean crop, serves as an ideal testbed due to its richness in sulfur-containing amino acids, which many staple crops lack. However, flavor and environmental challenges limit its potential. I elucidate the genetic basis of traits like photoperiod sensitivity, flavor, yield, and nutritional value. This fundamental understanding of mashua will demonstrate how such insights can facilitate the broader adoption of neglected crops, improving global food security.
Tropaeolum tuberosum: A High-Altitude Andean Crop
Tropaeolum tuberosum, commonly known as mashua, is a tuberous plant native to the Andean region of South America. It is a member of the Tropaeolaceae family and is cultivated primarily for its edible tubers, which serve as an important food source in regions of Peru, Bolivia, Ecuador, and Colombia. This plant thrives in high-altitude environments, typically between 2,500 and 4,000 meters above sea level. The tubers of T. tuberosum are highly nutritious, containing carbohydrates, proteins, and essential vitamins. They also exhibit a unique pungent flavor due to the presence of glucosinolates, sulfur-containing compounds that contribute to their distinctive taste and potential medicinal properties. Studies suggest that these compounds possess antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, making T. tuberosum of interest in the field of ethnobotany and pharmacology. Agronomically, mashua is valued for its pest-resistant properties. Unlike other Andean tubers such as potatoes, T. tuberosum exhibits strong resistance to insect pests and pathogens, likely due to its secondary metabolites. The plant produces vibrant yellow or orange flowers, which contribute to its ornamental appeal, while its vigorous climbing growth habit allows it to be intercropped with maize and other staple crops. Traditional Andean communities have long utilized T. tuberosum not only as food but also for its purported medicinal properties, including its role in urinary and renal health. Recent studies have explored its potential as an antioxidant and its effects on hormonal balance. Due to its resilience and nutritional value, Tropaeolum tuberosum is gaining interest as a potential crop for sustainable agriculture in high-altitude regions worldwide.
