Inulin chain length modification using a transgenic approach opening new perspectives for chicory

Area of Science:

• Plant Biotechnology
• Biochemistry
• Agricultural Science

Background:

• Chicory (Cichorium intybus L. var. sativum) is a valuable source of inulin.
• Long-chain inulin synthesis in chicory is crucial for its industrial applications.
• Sucrose-sucrose 1-fructosyltransferase (1-SST) activity is a key determinant of inulin chain length.

Purpose of the Study:

• To enhance the long-chain inulin content in chicory.
• To investigate the role of sucrose-sucrose 1-fructosyltransferase (1-SST) in inulin biosynthesis.
• To develop transgenic chicory plants with overexpressed 1-SST.

Main Methods:

• Agrobacterium-mediated transformation was used to create transgenic chicory plants (cv. 'Melci').
• The 1-SST gene was overexpressed under the CaMV 35S promoter.
• Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) confirmed T-DNA integration, and transcript levels were quantified.

Main Results:

• Transgenic chicory plants exhibited significantly higher 1-SST gene expression compared to non-transgenic controls.
• Fructan content, particularly long-chain inulin, was substantially increased in the roots of transgenic plants.
• Successful integration and overexpression of the 1-SST gene were confirmed.

Conclusions:

• Overexpression of the 1-SST gene is an effective strategy to increase long-chain inulin content in chicory.
• This approach offers a novel method for developing chicory varieties with enhanced inulin production.
• The study highlights the potential of genetic engineering for improving valuable crop traits.