Premium
Metabolism of [ 14 C]‐2,4‐dichlorophenol in edible plants
Author(s) -
Laurent François,
Debrauwer Laurent,
PascalLorber Sophie
Publication year - 2006
Publication title -
pest management science
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.296
H-Index - 125
eISSN - 1526-4998
pISSN - 1526-498X
DOI - 10.1002/ps.1213
Subject(s) - 2,4 dichlorophenol , metabolism , metabolic pathway , enzyme , biochemistry , transgene , genetically modified crops , chemistry , secondary metabolism , biology , gene , biosynthesis , genetics , bacteria
Several 2,4‐dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4‐D)‐sensitive plants have been modified by genetic engineering with tfdA gene to acquire 2,4‐D tolerance. The expression product of this gene degrades 2,4‐D to 2,4‐dichlorophenol (DCP), which is less phytotoxic but could cause a problem of food safety. After a comparison of 2,4‐D and DCP metabolism in transgenic 2,4‐D‐tolerant and wild cotton ( Gossypium hirsutum L.), a direct study of DCP metabolism in edible plants was performed. After petiolar uptake of a [U‐ phenyl ‐ 14 C]‐DCP solution followed by a 48 h water chase, aqueous extracts were analysed by high‐performance liquid chromatography. Metabolites were thereafter isolated and their structural identities were determined by enzymatic and chemical hydrolyses and mass spectrometry analyses. The metabolic fate of DCP was equivalent to 2,4‐D metabolism in transgenic 2,4‐D‐tolerant cotton. In addition, DCP metabolism was similar in transgenic and wild cotton. The major terminal metabolites were DCP‐saccharide conjugates in all species, essentially DCP‐(6‐ O ‐malonyl)‐glucoside or its precursor DCP‐glucose. The significance of this metabolic pathway with regard to food safety is discussed. Copyright © 2006 Society of Chemical Industry