Question

An extract of common Jasmine (Jasminum officinale) has potential activity and it has shown positive results in clinical trials against human bacterial pathogens. However, the active compound is present in very low concentration. Suggest any two ways to increase its production. Also suggest a strategy to ensure that the production of recombinant protein does not occur until required.

Answer 1

Two ways to increase the production of the active compound from Jasmine extract are:

1. Tissue culture: Tissue culture techniques can be employed to produce a large number of plantlets from a small amount of plant tissue. The plantlets can then be used to produce a large quantity of the desired compound. This method also has the advantage of being able to control the environment and optimize the conditions for maximum production.
2. Genetic engineering: Genetic engineering can be used to introduce the gene responsible for the production of the active compound into a high-yielding plant species. This method has the potential to increase the yield of the active compound, as well as to optimize the production process.

To ensure that the production of recombinant protein does not occur until required, a strategy called "conditional expression" can be used. This involves placing the gene for the recombinant protein under the control of a promoter that is only active under certain conditions. For example, the promoter could be temperature-sensitive, meaning that the gene is only expressed at high temperatures. Alternatively, the promoter could be induced by a specific chemical, allowing for precise control over the timing and level of expression. This approach can minimize the negative effects of producing excess protein, such as cytotoxicity and protein misfolding.