New IGZ Study Highlights Tissue-Specific Enzyme Activity to Enhance Plant Protection and Health Benefits

A research team at the Leibniz Institute for Vegetable and Ornamental Crops (IGZ) has analyzed how glucosinolates, health-promoting plant compounds, are broken down within various tissues of the kohlrabi plant. The findings reveal that the enzymes myrosinase and “specifier” proteins in leaves, stems, and bulb tissues determine whether breakdown products are generated that can support human health as well as enhance the plant’s pest resistance. These insights could help to specifically increase the health benefits and pest resistance of kohlrabi.