Influence of salicylic acid and methyl jasmonate on glucosinolate levels in turnip

SummaryThe effects of the elicitors, salicylic acid (SA) and methyl jasmonate (MJ), on glucosinolate levels and composition were assessed in turnip plants. Data on glucosinolate levels in leaves, secondary roots, and primary roots of hydroponically-grown turnip are presented. Treatment with either elicitor increased the total amount of glucosinolates, particularly levels of the aromatic 2-phenylethyl- and indole-glucosinolates, in secondary roots. In contrast, SA or MJ either reduced or did not affect the levels of aliphatic glucosinolates. These results suggest that application of SA or MJ induced the biosynthesis of aromatic and indole glucosinolates in turnip, indicating a strategy for the production of plants rich in these substances, which could be used as raw material for the production of functional foods, nutraceuticals and pharmaceuticals.