University of Reading was Europe’s leading centre for research into genetically modified crops at the turn of the millennium, when its scientists turned their attention towards the healing properties of potatoes.

By combining the vegetable with pineapple tissue, researches began developing a paste which could clear dead skin from severe burns.

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This would allow skin grafts to be performed and speed up the healing process.

Reading Chronicle: A greenhouse at the University of Reading where pineapples were grown. Credit: BBC ArchiveA greenhouse at the University of Reading where pineapples were grown. Credit: BBC Archive

“It is an interesting concept that you can produce these enzymes in genetically modified organism and that there is some history of use of these enzymes to help people who have recalcitrant wounds that need treatment,” said Dr Peter Shakespeare of the specialist burns unit at Salisbury District Hospital, when interviewed by the BBC in 2000.

“Not so much burns, but more ulcers and pressure sores.”

Reading Chronicle: Dr Peter Shakespeare of the specialist burns unit at Salisbury District Hospital, interviewed by the BBC in 2000. Credit: BBC ArchiveDr Peter Shakespeare of the specialist burns unit at Salisbury District Hospital, interviewed by the BBC in 2000. Credit: BBC Archive

Footage of the interview, which can be viewed at BBC Rewind, is one of more than 30,000 archive video released by the BBC dating back to the 1940’s.

Researchers took genes from pineapple tissue which can take away dead tissue from burnt areas and used them to genetically modify potatoes.

Reading Chronicle: A paste used to treat skin burns. Credit: BBC ArchiveA paste used to treat skin burns. Credit: BBC Archive

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As part of its centenary celebrations the BBC launched ‘BBC Rewind’ across the UK.

This is the largest release of digital archive content in BBC history, categorised by the nations and regions of the UK and containing many emotional and powerful stories, many of which have not been viewed since their original broadcast.

Reading Chronicle: A researcher at the University of Reading. Credit: BBC ArchiveA researcher at the University of Reading. Credit: BBC Archive

“As we celebrate 100 years of the BBC, we’re opening up our unique and deeply valuable archive, an important part of the nation’s collective memory,” said James Stirling, Executive Editor of BBC 100.

“By breathing new life into stories which have laid dormant for years, audiences will be able to discover recordings which can help us all learn more about who we are and where we’re from.”