Distribution and changes of diosgenin during development of Trigonella foenum-graecum plants. Modulation by benzylaminopurine

The distribution and evolution of diosgenin levels in the different organs of Trigonella foenum-graecum were investigated. The results revealed that the maximum levels of this secondary compound are reached in the young leaves (20mg g−1 dry weight). A considerable increase in the levels of this sapogenin was observed after treatment of seeds with benzylaminopurine. These results open up new perspectives for the possible development of plants with high concentrations of this compound.