Increasing the Expression of Anticancer Alkaloids in Perwinkle

The rose perwinkle (Catharantus roseus), a widely cultivated ornamental plant, produces low levels of the anticancer alkaloids vincristine and vinblastine. These compounds are among the most valued agents for cancer chemotherapy. Intensive research has resulted to the elucidation of the complete biosynthetic pathway of these alkaloids. But since these compounds are produced in very minute amounts, it is estimated that half a ton of dry leaves is needed to obtain one gram of vinblastine, scientists have searched for ways to improve vincristine and vinblastine production in Catharanthus leaves.

A group of scientists from the Netherlands, Portugal and Spain has characterized a gene coding for CrPrX1, a key enzyme in the biosynthesis of the anticancer alkaloids. The scientists have demonstrated that this enzyme is localized in the plant vacuole (organelle that serves a variety of secretory, excretory, and storage functions). Increasing the expression of CrPrX1 will lead to increased accumulation of  vincristine and vinblastine.

The abstract of the paper published by Plant Physiology, including links to the complete article, is available at http://www.plantphysiol.org/cgi/content/abstract/146/2/403