Plant Glandular Trichomes as Targets for Breeding or Engineering of Resistance to Herbivores
2012
Glas, Joris J. | Schimmel, Bernardus C.J. | Alba Cano, Juan Manuel | Escobar-Bravo, Rocio | Schuurink, Robert C. | Kant, Merijn | Netherlands Organization for Scientific Research | Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas [https://ror.org/02gfc7t72]
Glandular trichomes are specialized hairs found on the surface of about 30% of all vascular plants and are responsible for a significant portion of a plant’s secondary chemistry. Glandular trichomes are an important source of essential oils, i.e., natural fragrances or products that can be used by the pharmaceutical industry, although many of these substances have evolved to provide the plant with protection against herbivores and pathogens. The storage compartment of glandular trichomes usually is located on the tip of the hair and is part of the glandular cell, or cells, which are metabolically active. Trichomes and their exudates can be harvested relatively easily, and this has permitted a detailed study of their metabolites, as well as the genes and proteins responsible for them. This knowledge now assists classical breeding programs, as well as targeted genetic engineering, aimed to optimize trichome density and physiology to facilitate customization of essential oil production or to tune biocide activity to enhance crop protection. We will provide an overview of the metabolic diversity found within plant glandular trichomes, with the emphasis on those of the Solanaceae, and of the tools available to manipulate their activities for enhancing the plant’s resistance to pests.
Show more [+] Less [-]JMA is funded via NWO Earth and Life Sciences (ALW) TOP (854.11.005) and BJCS via NWO Earth and Life Sciences (ALW) together with TTI Green Genetics (828.08.001).
Show more [+] Less [-]Peer reviewed
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