Optimization of lipid compound synthesis in Theobroma cacao L. in vitro cultures through stress inducers: towards a sustainable approach

Authors

Andrea Carolina Palacios Rosado, Universidad Técnica de Ambato, UTA; Mateo Patricio Sánchez Sanaguano, Universidad Técnica de Ambato, UTA; Christian Israel Andrade Romero, Universidad Técnica de Ambato, UTA; Liliana Paulina Lalaleo Córdova, Universidad Técnica de Ambato, UTA; William Calero Cáceres, Universidad Técnica de Ambato, UTA; Santiago Casado, Universidad Técnica de Ambato, UTA

Synopsis

Theobroma cacao L., particularly the National “fino de aroma” variety, represents a strategic genetic resource for Ecuador; however, its cultivation is constrained by diseases and climate variability. This study aimed to characterize the fatty acid profile in biotechnological systems exposed to stress inducers (methyl jasmonate, salicylic acid, glycerol, and elevated temperature). Biomass proliferation was optimized in MS, B5, and WPM media, with WPM supplemented with NAA and KIN proving the most effective. Lipid extraction and quantification were conducted through acid hydrolysis, hexane extraction, and FTIR spectroscopy, focusing on oleic, palmitic, and stearic acids. Results indicated that salicylic acid and methyl jasmonate markedly enhanced fatty acid accumulation, whereas glycerol and high temperature had comparatively limited effects. These findings highlight the potential of stress inducers as effective tools to modulate lipid biosynthesis in cacao, offering promising applications for sustainable plant biotechnology.

Published

April 3, 2026

How to Cite

Optimization of lipid compound synthesis in Theobroma cacao L. in vitro cultures through stress inducers: towards a sustainable approach. (2026). In III International Congress of Biotechnology and Neotropical Ecosystems (p. e3). Editorial Unión Científica. https://doi.org/10.63804/CIBEN.25.bbfs.e3