Evaluation and genetic variation of lutein content in Chinese common wheat

Selection of lutein-rich genotypes through breeding can enhance the nutritional value of wheat and provide a healthier diet. The present study used high performance liquid chromatography to analyze the lutein content of the Chinese wheat Mini Core Collection of 262 common wheats. In addition, the effects of water regime, accession type, release year, geographical origin, and the correlation of lutein content with various agronomic traits was examined. The lutein content among genotypes varied ten-fold, ranging from 0.87 to 8.90 μg/g. Ten cultivars with an average content more than 5.0 μg/g were identified as sources of the high lutein trait. Lutein content among different environments was significantly correlated and the genotype (G) and environment (E) response showed G > G × E > E with the effect of water level likely to be small. These results also demonstrated that the lutein content of Chinese wheat had not undergone extensive selection during the breeding process and was independent of accession type, plant habit, and grain color. However, lutein content was related to the geographical origin of accessions. Among ten agronomic traits evaluated, only grain related traits were associated with lutein content. These results provided essential information for breeding programs to improve the nutritional quality of wheat by enhancing lutein content.