Enhance Glucosinolates in Plants
Tech ID: 11379 / UC Case 2001-463-0Abstract
Isolation of Key Gene Related to Dietary Cancer Prevention
Full Description
A key gene related to dietary cancer prevention has been isolated by University of California, Davis researchers. Cancer prevention linked to the consumption of cruciferous vegetables has long been established. The high levels of compounds known as glucosinolates in cruciferous plants are the basis of their anticarcinogenic action, which works by inducing enzymes that detoxify carcinogens in the body. Glucosinolate compounds are found in cruciferous plants such as broccoli, cauliflower, and oilseeds.
The gene isolated by University researchers is a key to the biosynthesis of anticarcinogenic glucosinolate compounds. Using this gene pathway, a number of glucosinolate compositions can be manipulated in the same plant, which can:
* Maximize levels of anticarcinogenic compounds in cruciferous plants
* Improve the taste and nutritional value of cruciferous plants
* Block formation of other glucosinolates that are known anti-nutrients, solving a significant problem with animal feed and oilseed crops
With 10.3 million new cancer cases yearly, there is significant market potential for varieties of high-glucosinolate cruciferous vegetables. This gene could be rapidly implemented to engineer or select varieties of anticarcinogenic broccoli and other crops.
Patents:
US 7,250,559 [MORE INFO]
Inventor(s): Li, Genyi; Quiros, Carlos F.
Type of Offer: Licensing
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