Biochemical Characterization of Red Rice Genotypes (Oryza sativa l.)

Micronutrient malnutrition is a conman problem in rice-consuming countries. Among them, iron (Fe) and zinc (Zn) deficiencies are highly predominant. Red rice is has a higher content of important micronutrient like Fe and Zn. Hence it is utilized as an objective in breeding programs for the nutritional improvement of cultivated varieties. Proximate analysis of zinc and iron content from selected rice varieties was measured by using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS). The present study was undertaken to detect the polymorphism and genetic diversity using biochemical marker SDS-PAGE in the selected rice genotypes. Proximate analysis showed higher amount of Fe and Zn content in colored genotypes of rice. It was suggested from SDS profiling that there must be certain proteins unique to red rice genotypes. This information may provide more opportunities for selecting beneficial genetic resources for rice breeding to enhance nutritional quality.