Development of transgenic rice containing a mutated p subunit of soybean β-conglycinin for enhanced phagocytosis-stimulating activity

Improving the nutraceutical value of rice would positively impact the health and well-being of rice consumers worldwide. Based on the three-dimensional structure of soybean beta-conglycinin, we designed a beta subunit with a strong phagocytosis-stimulating activity (m beta subunit). Here, we describe the genetic modification and production of rice seeds containing the m beta subunit as part of our aim to develop a food material that promotes human health. The m beta subunit folded correctly and was accumulated in the protein body II of rice seeds at a level similar to wild-type beta subunit. Mutant beta subunit purified from transgenic rice seeds exhibited high phagocytosis-stimulating activity, demonstrating its potential value in enhancing the nutritional value of rice. (C) 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.