Evaluation of alkaloid profiles in hybrid generations of different poppy (Papaver somniferum L.) genotypes

Abstract Five varieties (‘Minoan’, ‘Medea’, ‘Korona’, ‘Przemko’, ‘Kozmosz’) of poppy representing different chemotypes were combined and the alkaloid profiles of F1–F3 progenies were studied during 2006–2009. In the crosses of high alkaloid containing varieties the content of total alkaloids and that of morphine and thebaine showed increased levels in the hybrid generations which persisted till F3. Narcotine (noscapine), however accumulated at lower level than the midparent values and showed a decreasing tendency over generations. A higher number of homogenous strains starts to appear in F3 progenies. The majority of codeine containing individuals concentrates to certain strains. A growing number of high thebaine containing individuals was observed in several combinations. In the crosses with low alkaloid containing parent (‘Przemko’) the F1 exhibits considerable heterosis for total alkaloid content. Low alkaloid containing recessive individuals segregate in F2 and stabilise in F3. Results of our crossing experiments reflected well the effects of genetic regulation at three levels of enzymatic processes during the biosynthesis of poppy alkaloids. Data support the recessive determination of transformations at TyDC (tyrosine decarboxylase) and BBE (berberine bridge enzyme) levels while more complex (polygenic) effects are supposed in controlling the quantity of narcotine (noscapine) and morphinanes. Selection for fixing very low alkaloid content and narcotine may be effective in early F2 generations, however a selection for morphinanes is not worthy before F3.