Bromelain enzyme from pineapple: in vitro activity study under different micropropagation conditions

Area of Science:

• Plant Biotechnology
• Enzymology
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Bromelain, a cysteine protease from pineapple plants (Ananas comosus), possesses significant pharmacological and industrial applications.
• Its production is influenced by various factors, necessitating optimization for commercial viability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess bromelain activity in Pérola cultivar pineapple plants produced in vitro.
• To determine the impact of different in vitro culture conditions on bromelain levels in various plant tissues.

Main Methods:

• Enzymatic activity of bromelain was quantified in leaf and stem tissues of pineapple plants grown in vitro without plant growth regulators.
• Comparative analysis of bromelain levels across different tissues and culture durations was performed.

Main Results:

• Leaf tissue exhibited the highest bromelain activity after 4 months of in vitro culture, particularly in a medium supported by a filter paper bridge.
• Bromelain levels varied significantly between leaf and stem tissues and were dependent on culture conditions and time.

Conclusions:

• In vitro culture conditions and plant tissue type significantly influence bromelain activity in Ananas comosus.
• This research provides a viable strategy for producing pineapple seedlings with elevated bromelain levels through controlled micropropagation.