An Agrobacterium rhizogenes mediated hairy root transformation protocol for fenugreek

• This work describes a protocol for hairy root transformation of the medicinal crop legume fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.). Hairy root plant transformation mediated by Agrobacterium rhizogenes is an established method for the rapid genetic transformation of various dicotyledonous plants. We have adapted a hairy root transformation protocol from the model legume Medicago truncatula for use in this metabolically rich non-model crop legume. Considering the great variety and abundance of phytochemicals in fenugreek and its established use in traditional medicine, we aim for this method to become a resource for metabolic pathway identification and for production of valuable specialised metabolites via metabolic engineering approaches. • Development rapid transformation (2.5–3 weeks) of fenugreek roots via A. rhizogenes. • Marker gene cassette with suitable promoter for visual detection of transformed fenugreek roots.