Induced production of indol-3-ylmethyl glucosinolates in hairy roots of Chinese cabbage (Brassica rapa subsp. pekinensis): perspectives to enhance the content of bioactive compounds

Brassica species have an important class of secondary metabolites, the glucosinolates, whose specific hydrolysis products are critical for flavor, smell and nutritional properties. While some of the hydrolysis products have been recognized as health promoting compounds for humans, others, such as indol-3-ylmethyl glucosinolates, have been associated with deleterious effects by forming DNA adducts. Thus, it is important to have a strong knowledge of all aspects involved in the biosynthesis of such compounds in order to design vegetables with an improved secondary metabolite profile. In this context we present this study, in which Chinese cabbage was treated with different signaling substances (jasmonic acid, salicylic acid, and yeast extract) and grown for 4 weeks, under light, 8°C and 37°C. Metabolomics analysis, aiming at specific changes in the glucosinolate and related indole derivatives profile and content, were performed using HPLC-DAD-UV/VIS. Hairy roots of Chinese cabbage were studied. Preliminary results showed a variation in the profile and content of the above compounds, suggesting a variation in their biosynthetic pathway. The specific differences observed in this comparative analysis enables the development of new and innovative tools for breeding vegetables with improved GS and indole compounds in the near future.