Abstract
The objective of this study was to investigate and characterize cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) genotypes for total grain protein content, storage protein fractions (globulin, albumin, prolamin, basic and acid glutelins), and phytate and minerals contents. Eighteen cowpea genotypes were selected. Total grain protein content varied from 21.4% to 29.2%, for BRS Marataoã and Paulistinha genotypes, respectively. The variation in the concentration of each protein fraction was significant (P<0.05) only for glutelins (basic and acid). The genotypes studied exhibited great similarity in the PAGE electrophoretic profile of the grain protein fractions and also in the mineral content. BRS Paraguaçu genotype exhibited higher Zn content than thegenotypes that have been previously recommended for this characteristic. The lowest phytate grain content was observed in four of the 18 genotypes studied, which also exhibited high protein contents. Although the results did not converge to the selection of a few genotypes, some specific differences were detected that which may be further explored. Considering total grain protein, mineral and phytate contents, the genotype Paulistinha revealed a better balance unveiling high grain total protein content, low grain phytate content and more homogeneous mineral composition.
Highlights
About 20 leguminous species are used as dry grains for human nutrition because they are considered good sources of proteins, carbohydrates, water-soluble vitamins and minerals (Sreerama et al 2012, Klupšaitė & Juodeikienė 2015)
Due to the large number of genotypes available, the importance of this crop as a protein source and the growing scientific interest in the grain chemical composition, this study aimed to investigate and to characterize the grains of 18 cowpea genotypes for total protein content, storage protein fractions, phytate and minerals contents
The flour obtained was used for all analysis
Summary
About 20 leguminous species are used as dry grains for human nutrition because they are considered good sources of proteins, carbohydrates, water-soluble vitamins and minerals (Sreerama et al 2012, Klupšaitė & Juodeikienė 2015). Pulses are the main source of dietary protein for a large part of the population, mainly in Asia, Africa and South America (Jafari et al 2016). Populations with high intakes of pulses have lower risk of diabetes, cardiovascular disease and obesity (Jafari et al 2016). Among the pulses species that stand out due to their high grain protein content is cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.). Cowpea is an important grain legume cultivated in many parts of the world, in most tropical regions, especially in West Africa (Coulibaly & Lowenberg-DeBoer 2002, Abaidoo et al 2017). Cowpea has its origin in the southern African region and it is cultivated in more than 100 countries between 40oN and 30oS latitudes (Gonçalves et al 2016)
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