Introduction

. Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd), is considered one of the most complete foods due to its high content of fatty acids, trace elements and proteins rich in essential amino acids; However, it also has metabolites with anti-nutritional properties (saponins) that must be eliminated before consumption. Some studies carried out on the quinoa genome have been based on the identification of genes involved in the production of saponins to inhibit their expression and avoid post-harvest treatments (scarification).

Objective

. To establish, through bibliographic review, the molecular biology techniques applied to the genomic expression of saponins in quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd).

Methods

. The bibliographic review was carried out taking into account several sources of information, among them: doctoral theses, scientific articles, books and some WEB platforms (www.bbc.com, www.fao.org, www.sidalc.net and https://biología.laguía2000.com) with main interest in: quinoa genome, sequencing techniques, identified genes and their subsequent gene expression.

Conclusions

. The discovery of the complete genome of quinoa in 2017, applying the SMTR technique or other techniques such as pyrosequencing, was the starting point for the study of genes that provide its adaptability to various biotic and abiotic conditions. Thus, in relation to abiotic factors, it was reported on two occasions that the gene expression of saponins was related to cytochrome P450 genes and enzymes such as glucosyl transferases. Although the genes involved in the response to biotic agents have not yet been identified, this remains a hypothesis related to the content of saponins.

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