International research group known as Potato Genome Sequencing Consortium, which included Russian scientists, has read potato genome and identified genes, responsible for bulb formation and accumulation of starch.

      Scientists from Potato Genome Sequencing Consortium believe that information on potato genome structure will help create more nutritious potato varieties.

      Potato genome contains about 844 million nucleotides, which is about three and a half times less than human genome. Researchers successfully identified about 39 000 genes, located on 12 chromosomes and coding proteins with various functions. 3 400 genes are specific for potato.

      Potato bulb forms as a result of activity of 15 000 genes, which are responsible for starch synthesis and protection of young potato plants from various diseases.

      Source: RIA Novosti