密歇根州立大学和捷克科学院的研究人员揭示了乌头和飞燕草两种有毒植物合成二萜类生物碱化合物的生化过程[1]。研究团队追踪了数千个基因，确定了合成复杂化合物阿蒂尼鎓所需的六种酶[1]，并将这一过程转移到烟草植物中进行复制[1]，为这些稀有分子的可持续生产和测试提供了新途径。
阿蒂尼鎓可能对疼痛、疟疾、癌症和农业害虫有医疗用途[1]。乌头和飞燕草在全球医学中已使用数千年[1]。这项研究成果已发表在《Molecular Plant》期刊上[1]。
Researchers from Michigan State University and the Czech Academy of Sciences have uncovered the biochemical pathway by which two toxic plants synthesize complex alkaloid compounds with potential medical applications[1]. Through the analysis of thousands of genes, the team identified six enzymes necessary for the production of aconitine, a rare molecule found in monkshood and larkspur[1]. The researchers then successfully reproduced this biochemical process in modified tobacco plants, establishing a sustainable method for producing and testing these otherwise difficult-to-obtain compounds[1].
Aconitine and related compounds have been used in traditional medicine systems across the globe for thousands of years[1]. According to the research, these molecules show promise in addressing multiple health concerns and agricultural challenges[1]. The findings, published in Molecular Plant, demonstrate that engineering alternative plant hosts could enable broader investigation into the therapeutic potential of aconitine against pain, malaria, cancer, and agricultural pests[1].