Fabio Nogueira
UFRJ, Rio de Janeiro

Proteomics has changed the way scientists challenge biological systems.  In this context, biotechnology field should take advantage of this new research area.  For this reason, we are employing proteomic approaches to study plants that accumulate oils in their seeds. The castor plant (Ricinus communis L.) is able to accumulate 60% of oil in the form of triacylglycerols (TAG) in its seeds, where about 90% of the fatty acids (FA) are 12-hidroxyoleic acid (ricinoleate). Its FA has wide industrial applications, being used as raw material for biodiesel production. The seeds and the presscake produced after oil extraction have a high content of toxic proteins and allergens, a major problem for its cultivation. The creation of genotypes better suited for the industrial use and for production of biodiesel can be aided by the better knowledge (1) of the enzymes involved in the metabolic pathways of synthesis and degradation of FA and TAG and (2) of the synthesis and storage of toxins and allergens during seed development. In order to address these facts, we have used proteomic technologies to reveal proteins/genes that control FA biosynthesis and that are related with the toxicity and allergenicity of castor bean seeds. We will show some data generated during the last years and the applicability of proteomic techniques to study not only oilseeds but a range of biotechnological targets.