[Change in biochemical composition of amaranth leaves as a result of selection for increased level of amaranthine pigment]

Prikl Biokhim Mikrobiol. 2002 Sep-Oct;38(5):556-62.
[Article in Russian]

Abstract

The composition and content of secondary compounds produced by the shikimate pathway and the contents of protein and cellulose were determined in leaves of amaranth (Amaranthus tricolor L.) K-99 and the cultivar Valentina raised from it by family selection and enriched in the pigment amaranthine. It was found that intense biosynthesis of amaranthine, tyrosine, and phenylalanine resulted in a decrease in the contents of lignin, protein, and cellulose in leaves of Valentina by comparison with K-99 and in changed the morphological traits: color deepening and a decrease in leaf density. It is concluded that amaranth biosynthesis is related to nitrogen metabolism and amaranthine is an intermediate involved in conversion of nitrogen compounds in the cell.

Publication types

  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Amaranthus / genetics
  • Amaranthus / metabolism*
  • Betacyanins
  • Plant Lectins / metabolism*
  • Selection, Genetic*

Substances

  • Betacyanins
  • Plant Lectins
  • amaranthin betacyanin