Wheat GSPs and Processing Quality Are Affected by Irrigation and Nitrogen through Nitrogen Remobilisation

Area of Science:

• Agronomy
• Plant Science
• Food Science

Background:

• Wheat grain storage proteins (GSPs) are crucial for rheological properties and end-use food qualities.
• Factors like tillage, irrigation, and fertilization influence GSP levels, but the specific impacts of irrigation and nitrogen require clarification.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of varying irrigation and nitrogen application strategies on GSP levels and processing qualities in different wheat cultivars.
• To determine optimal management practices for enhancing wheat quality under diverse soil fertility conditions.

Main Methods:

• A split-split block design experiment was conducted using low- and high-fertility soils.
• Treatments included three irrigation regimes (W0, W1, W2) and four nitrogen application rates (N0, N180, N240, N300).
• Two wheat cultivars (FDC5 and BN207) were evaluated for GSP content and processing characteristics.

Main Results:

• Nitrogen application significantly impacted GSP levels and processing quality (p < 0.01), with N240 identified as the optimal rate.
• Irrigation's effect on GSPs was fertility-dependent: W2 was optimal in low-fertility soil, while W1 was optimal in high-fertility soil.
• Specific glutenin subunits (e.g., Bx7, Dy10, Ax1, Dx5) and gliadins were modulated by these treatments, influencing key quality parameters like wet glutenin content and dough stability.

Conclusions:

• Appropriate irrigation and nitrogen management are essential for improving nitrogen remobilization and GSP accumulation in wheat.
• Tailored irrigation and nitrogen strategies can significantly enhance wheat processing quality and overall production.
• The study provides valuable insights for optimizing wheat cultivation practices to meet quality demands.