UDP-Xylose Synthases (UXS) Polynucleotides, Polypeptides and Uses Thereof

A method for making a genetically modified plant with increased energy availability and improved starch extractability the method comprising:

• (a) transforming a cell with an expression cassette comprising an isolated nucleic acid selected from the group consisting of:
• (i) a polynucleotide of from about 21 nucleotides to about 400 nucleotides encoding an RNA that is capable of inhibiting expression of an mRNA encoded by any one of SEQ ID NOS:
• 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13 or 15;
• or
• (ii) a polynucleotide encoding a transcript comprising a sense strand comprising the polynucleotide of (i), and an antisense strand comprising the complement of the polynucleotide of (i), wherein the transcript encoded by the polynucleotide is capable of forming a double stranded RNA;
• (b) regenerating a genetically modified plant from the cell;
• and
• (c) selecting for a genetically modified plant with increased energy availability and starch extractability.