Identification of the DGAT gene in canola advances knowledge of lipid synthesis and provides a tool for genetic manipulation to achieve desired end-products through a target enzyme. The isolated and characterized DGAT genes have potential for increasing commercial value of oilseed products, as well as increasing geographic distribution and diversity of oilseed crops.

The DGAT polypeptides can effect recombinant expression of DGAT in plants and plant tissues, not being limited to crops grown for commercial oil production, and can be expressed in non-plant eukaryotic organisms. Use of native B. napus DGAT genes for improving the oil content through biotechnology may more readily meet stringent controls on genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and achieve public acceptance.

The polypeptide can be readily produced and isolated by a number of known techniques including batch and continuous fermentation to optimize product-to-cost ratios.

The fatty acid profile of canola has proven health benefits in reducing the risk of coronary heart disease and decreasing plasma cholesterol, and greater availability can provide consumers with a healthier dietary oil choice in food applications. The same technology can significantly benefit the animal feed industry and increase the value of product for the seed crushing industry.

The DGAT gene could be used to develop an elite canola germplasm and complement traditional means of crop improvement.

Areas of application for the DGAT gene technology include:

1. Development of new canola cultivars with increased seed oil content to complement traditional breeding programs;


2. Recombinant expression of DGAT in non-canola plant cultivars with altered oil formation capacity for use in human foods and animal feed applications;


3. Industrial production and isolation of oil products using recombinant technology, such as in bacteria and yeast;


4. Incorporation in human food applications for healthier end products used in cooking, baking, salads and marinades

Disclaimer: Although care has been taken in the preparation of this material to be as accurate as possible the contents of this brochure are provided for information purposes only and neither Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) nor the inventors offer any warrant written or implied as to the accuracy of the said contents.

DGAT polynucleotides coding for polypeptides which express DGAT activity have been isolated. The function of the DGAT clones has been confirmed by expression in plants, plant tissues, and yeast. Methods for DGAT production and modulating DGAT activity in plants are available, as are methods for producing oils and triacylglycerols (TAGs).

This technology is available for non-exclusive licensing.

Expression of DGAT activity was accomplished in yeast, dicots and monocots.