A molecular genetic approach to reducing the saturated fatty acid content of canola oil

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Date
2003
Authors
Bondaruk, Mandy
University of Lethbridge. Faculty of Arts and Science
Journal Title
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Publisher
Lethbridge, Alta. : University of Lethbridge, Faculty of Arts and Science, 2003
Abstract
Brassica napus is known to contain an endogenous and soluble stearoyl-acyl carrier protein (^918:0-ACP) desaturase, but does not express a palmitic (16:0)-ACP desaturase. Levels of 16:0 are low in canola oil and are associated with enhanced cholesterol biosynthesis in humans. In an attempt to further reduce the saturated fatty acid (SFA) content of canola oil, B. Napus L. cv Westar was transformed with a cDNA encoding a ^916:0-ACP desaturase from cat's claw (Doxantha unguis-cati L.). Arabidopsis thaliana was also transformed with this cDNA. Transformation of both oilseeds resulted in increased production of palmitoleic acid (^16:1) and many other effects of fatty acid composition. Overall, the SFA content did not decrease in either oilseed and investigation to why this effect occurred was examined using transgenic B. napus. Molecular genetic testing on second generation B. napus also determined the plants contained the cDNA of interest and were transcribing the cDNA.
Description
xxi, 155 leaves : ill. ; 29 cm.
Keywords
Saturated fatty acids , Canola oil , Fatty acids -- Synthesis , Oilseeds , Oilseed plants -- Composition , Molecular genetics , Dissertations, Academic
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