The production of very long chain fatty acids in transgenic plants

摘要

There is now much evidence as to the importance of very long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (VLC-PUFAs) in optimal human nutrition. In particular, the omega-3 C_(22) docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) plays a key role (in conjunction with the omega-3 C_(20) VLC-PUFA eicosapentaenoic acid, EPA) in reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease and metabolic syndrome. Similarly, DHA and the omega-6 C_(20) VLC-PUFA arachidonic acid (ARA) are known to play a key role in aspects of neonatal development, in particular the development of the retina and brain. It is on account of these observations that ARA and DFIA are now routine components of infant formula milks; this also represents a high-value market for these fatty acids.