UV induction of trans-resveratrol biosynthesis in the leaves of greenhouse- and in vitro grown potatoes (Solanum tuberosum L.)

In the leaves of both greenhouse- and ill vitro grown potatoes (Solanum tub erosum) irradiation with UV light induced the biosynthesis of the stilbene phytoalexin trans-resveratrol. The stilbene could be detected after inducti on by UV light with the help of HPLC in all genotypes tested (six cultivars , one breeding line). The trans-resveratrol concentrations in the leaves 2 days after induction reached a maximum and declined thereafter. Between gen otypes differences existed with regard to the amounts of trans-resveratrol accumulated following induction.