Colture in vitro di carciofo (Cynara scolymus L.): un sistema biotecnologico alternativo per la produzione di composti bioattivi
Author(s)
Meneghini, Massimiliano
Date Issued
June 29, 2016
Type
Doctoral Thesis
Abstract
The globe artichoke (Cynara cardunculus L. var. scolymus L.) is an ancient perennial plant species
belonging to the Asteraceae family, originating from the Mediterranean area, which today is widely
cultivated all over the word. Italy is the world's largest producer of artichokes and second largest
exporter after Spain. Among the vegetable crops, artichoke occupies the third position in Italy
preceded only by the tomato and potato.
From a nutritional point of view, artichoke has low energy and fat content and is rich in protein,
minerals and soluble and insoluble fiber. Among biochemical constituents of artichoke, polyphenols
(mono- and di- caffeoylquinic acids and flavonoids), sugars and inulin have an important role both
from the nutritional and technological point of view. In fact, it can be ascribed to the caffeic acid
derivatives hepatoprotective, choleretic, and diuretic properties while to flavonoid anti-inflammatory,
antimicrobial and antioxidant activity. The inulin is a fructose polymer that promotes the growth of
bifidobacteria in human intestinal microflora (prebiotic function), helping to inhibit the presence of
harmful bacteria. It also has beneficial effects on mineral absorption, blood lipid composition, and
prevention of colon cancer.
The levels of these compounds may vary according to globe artichoke genotype, organ considered,
physiological stage, pedoclimatic and agronomic conditions. The interaction of these factors does not
allow the supply of raw material with standardized features. The in vitro cultures have the potential
to control factors inducing variability in yields, making the process standardized and economically
sustainable.
The objective of this study was to investigate the possibility to produce bioactive (caffeoylquinic
acids, flavones, and anthocyanins) and prebiotic (inulin) molecules from cell cultures and organs
(roots, hairy roots) of artichoke “Grato1”. To this end, experimental conditions for the establishment
of in vitro systems for artichoke biomass production were defined.
In particular, for the production and analysis of the polyphenols, experimental conditions for the
establishment of artichoke cell cultures from leaf explants were defined. High-producing cell lines
were isolated and selected and analysed for total polyphenols and total caffeoylquinic acids content
and antioxidant activity. The results obtained were compared with those found in the literature for
genotype “Grato 1” grown in the open field.
Regarding inulin, to identify the most suitable system to its production in vitro, different types of
plant material were obtained and analysed. In particular, the following types of cultures were
established: a) roots; b) callus from root explants; c) "hairy roots" induced by infection with
Agrobacterium rhizogenens. The inulin content from in vitro materials was compared with those of
roots of artichoke plants grown in a hydroponic system and in the open field.
Additional information
Dottorato di ricerca in Biotecnologie vegetali
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