silusbotwin
Well-Known Member
"
Abstract: 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."
Abstract: 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."
