Researchers at the University of Alberta have developed a method to detect and quantify the efficacy of enzymes involved in TAG synthesis. Because the method is done in situ, it uses minimal materials and processing steps. The technology is amenable to high-throughput screening of enzymes, fatty acid substrates, and modulators of TAG production, all without the use of hazardous materials.

The present invention represents a valuable opportunity to biotechnology companies, specifically those involved with the agricultural or pharmaceutical sector, as it relates to growing oilseed crops with desirable TAG properties and to the development of drugs that target obesity, atherosclerosis, or other lipid-related diseases.

DISCLAIMER: Although care has been taken in the preparation of this material to be as accurate as possible, the contents of this document are provided for information purposes only, and neither the University of Alberta nor the inventors offer any warranty, written or implied, as to the accuracy of the said contents.

Neutral lipids, specifically triglycerides or triacylglycerols (TAGs), are an important industrial feedstock and an energy source. Much research is performed to enhance oilseed production and to link TAG synthesis to obesity with the goal of developing anti-obesity drugs. However, the current procedures used in evaluating the catalytic activity of enzymes related to TAG synthesis are laborious and involve radioactively-labelled materials.