Research Projects

Boswellia serrata Roxb. is a perennial deciduous tree found in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East that produces resin. Indian frankincense, or gum resin, is used in traditional medicine for treating various diseases, including hepatoprotection, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and liver fibrosis. The quality of boswellia gum resin and its products is evaluated by the content of six boswellic acids. Understanding the pathway of boswellic acid production in Boswellia serrata can be improved through genetic engineering. This study aims to pinpoint genes active at each step of the biosynthesis, such as precursor synthesis, enzyme catalysis, and regulatory functions. Comparative transcriptome studies of several Boswellia species can reveal conserved genes, regulatory systems, and species-specific adaptations. Hairy root culture can also be used as an experimental framework for investigating potential genes implicated in Boswellia serrata's triterpene boswellic acid production. This approach will help better understand the biosynthetic process and pinpoint important genes and regulatory systems involved in the synthesis of triterpene boswellic acid.