In a significant stride towards sustainable agriculture, researchers have successfully developed a method to cultivate *Drimys winteri*, a native Chilean tree known for its potent antifungal properties, through micropropagation. This breakthrough, published in the journal *Plants*, opens new avenues for producing plant-derived antifungal agents, potentially reducing reliance on synthetic agrochemicals.
The study, led by Julia Rubio from the Instituto Ciencias Biomédicas at Universidad Autónoma de Chile, focuses on the tree commonly known as canelo. *D. winteri* is renowned for its bioactive compounds, particularly sesquiterpenes like polygodial and drimenol, which exhibit strong antifungal activity. However, the tree’s slow growth and limited availability have posed challenges for large-scale extraction of these compounds.
To overcome these hurdles, the research team developed an in vitro clonal micropropagation platform. This method allows for the controlled production of plant material in laboratory conditions, ensuring a consistent supply of *D. winteri* for bioactive compound extraction. “We formulated four tailored culture media that enabled successful propagation, rooting of plantlets, and callus induction,” Rubio explained. Histological analysis further confirmed the presence of meristemoids in the dedifferentiated calli, indicating the potential for continuous production of valuable plant material.
One of the most compelling findings of the study is the similarity in phytochemical composition between extracts from *in vitro*-propagated *D. winteri* and those from mature, wild-grown trees. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analyses revealed that the extracts from both sources have comparable antifungal activity against *Botrytis cinerea*, a common plant pathogen.
The implications for the agriculture sector are substantial. As the global push for sustainable practices intensifies, the demand for eco-friendly alternatives to synthetic agrochemicals is on the rise. This biotechnological approach offers a scalable method for producing plant-based antifungal agents, contributing to more sustainable agriculture and the valorization of native genetic resources.
The research not only highlights the potential of *D. winteri* as a source of bioactive compounds but also demonstrates the feasibility of micropropagation as a tool for conserving and utilizing native plant species. “This study paves the way for further exploration of micropropagation techniques in other plant species with ethnobotanical significance,” Rubio noted.
As the agriculture industry grapples with the challenges of climate change and environmental degradation, innovations like this one are crucial. By harnessing the power of plant biotechnology, researchers are not only addressing immediate agricultural needs but also laying the groundwork for a more sustainable future. The study, led by Julia Rubio from the Instituto Ciencias Biomédicas at Universidad Autónoma de Chile, was published in the journal *Plants*, underscoring the growing intersection of plant science and agricultural technology.