Genes involved in shikonin biosynthesis from Arnebia euchroma:

A cDNA library of Arnebia euchroma using colour producing and non producing suspension cultures was made. An emphasis was laid on sequencing of the library. Degenerate primer based cloning of gene was adopted. Construction and validation of the library and cloning of partial HMG COA reductase from Arnebia was done. Further, cloning of the following genes: DOXP-reductoisomerase, geranyl diphosphate synthase, calnexin, phenylalanine ammonia lyase and cytochrome P450 reductase, acetoacetyl CoA thiolase, IPP isomerase, PHB geranyl transferase and Full-length gene of geranyl diphosphate synthase and HMG C0-A reductase was achieved.

Current status of the pathway with regards to the genes is shown below: