Brassinolide enhances glucosinolates biosynthesis in shoot culture of Chinese cabbage (Brassica rapa ssp. pekinensis)

Chinese cabbage (Brassica rapa ssp. pekinensis), a green vegetable with high nutritional value, has been found to be rich in glucosinolates. Brassinosteroids (BRs), which regulate various plant growth and development processes, have been studied for their effect on glucosinolate production in in vitro shoot cultures. In this study, the most active compound in brassinosteroids, brassinolide, was used at different concentrations to test its effect on glucosinolate biosynthesis. A total glucosinolate content of 8.512 µmol g−1 DW was observed on MS optimal medium supplemented with 0.2 mg L−1 brassinolide. The expression of key genes related to glucosinolate biosynthesis and brassinolide signaling pathways was upregulated by brassinolide treatment. This research provides valuable insights for pharmaceutical and food companies interested in producing consistent levels of glucosinolates in Chinese cabbage shoots through the use of brassinolide.