Advances in ω-3 Fatty Acid Desaturases of Plants

Abstract: Genes of ω-3 fatty acid desaturases are encoded by the multiple gene family which come from a similar ancestor gene. They located in the plastid or endoplasmic reticulum. The synthesis of trienoic fatty acids from18:2 and 16:2 are catalyzed by them. In addition， they can change the fatty acid composition of plant membrane lipid， improve the unsaturation， increase the level of trienoic fatty acids during chloroplast development and leaf mature， enhance the endurance on chilling and make a important role in recovery form photoinhibition after chilling stress. In resent years， many genes of ω-3 fatty acid desaturases in plant were cloned and new advances in gene expression and regulation and the physiological function of transgenetic plants are made.

CSTR: 32200.14.cjcb.2004.01.0008