Distribution of S-alk(en)yl-l-cysteine Sulfoxides in Garlic (Allium sativum L.)

Abstract

This study was devoted to distribution of S-alk(en)yl-L-cysteine sulfoxides (particularly alliin, methiin, and isoalliin) in plants of Allium sativum L. and to diversity of selected groups of garlic clones representing the three basic garlic morfotypes (i.e. flowering plants, scape absent and semi-bolters - this classification is based on IPGRI descriptors). The content of S-alk(en)yl-L-cysteine sulfoxides, important non-volatile precursors flavour-active compounds, was determined in four parts (roots, bulbs, false stems, and leaves) of six different clones of garlic (Allium sativum L.) plants collected during the whole of vegetation - in March, April, May, June, and July. The contents of target S-alk(en)yl-L-cysteine sulfoxides were dependent not only on part of garlic plants but also on morfotype of garlic plants and vegetation period.

Keywords

• garlic
• allium sativum
• s-alk(en)yl-l-cysteine sulfoxides
• alliin
• methiin
• isoalliin