Analysis of triterpene content in the model legume, Lotus japonicus

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We will carry out genetic and biochemical analysis of an important class of natural product (triterpenes) in the model legume species, Lotus japonicus. Crop legumes such as pea, soybean and alfalfa produce a diverse array of simple and conjugated triterpenes. These compounds have been implicated in pest and pathogen resistance, in plant-plant interactions and in the establishment of symbiotic relationships with nitrogen-fixing bacteria. Other well-known properties of legume triterpenes include bitterness and antifeedant activity. The delineation of genes required for triterpene synthesis will enable manipulation of triterpene content through genetic modification (GM) and classical breeding processes. This project will exploit the expertise, resources, technology platforms and germplasm collections that we have developed for the model legume L. japonicus at the John Innes Centre for genetic and biochemical analysis of triterpene content, with the objective of developing improved legume crops. Professor Pena-Rodriguez brings to the project many years experience in the purification and structural determination of complex triterpenes from a wide range of plant species and his broader expertise in natural product chemistry.

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