Transient heterologous expression of biosynthetic enzymes in Nicotiana benthamiana leaves can divert endogenous supplies of 2,3-oxidosqualene towards the production of new high-value triterpene products. Herein is described a detailed protocol for rapid (5 days) preparative-scale production of triterpenes and analogs utilizing this powerful plant-based platform.
Stephenson, M. J., Reed, J., Brouwer, B., Osbourn, A. Transient Expression in Nicotiana Benthamiana Leaves for Triterpene Production at a Preparative Scale. J. Vis. Exp. (138), e58169, doi:10.3791/58169 (2018).