The process

The technology

The unique nature of hairy roots means they can be manipulated to produce a diverse range of molecules which makes them an ideal biotechnology tool.

Hairy roots can be derived from various plant species to provide an effective platform for the production of a broad range of molecules.
In nature, hairy roots allow plants to draw more nutrients and water from their surroundings forming a symbiotic relationship with the bacteria.

Unlike adventitious roots, hairy roots can grow indefinitely and without geotropism. They are also able to grow independently of the green parts of the plant. This unique feature allows them to thrive in bioreactors without any need for light or heat.

Hairy roots are ideally suited to be used as a new biotechnology tool to optimize the production of speciality molecules. This amazing plant material naturally expresses all natural biosynthesis pathways that produce specialized metabolites. In addition, it is possible to transform hairy roots by stably integrating genes involved in particular metabolic pathways of interest (for example enzymes). These plant genes will push the pathway toward overexpression of the natural molecule of interest. Because hairy root clones are stably transformed they are also able to produce and secrete complex active glycoproteins from a wide range of organisms (i.e. human proteins). Their adaptability makes hairy roots invaluable bioproduction tools.