Heterologous expression of an acid phosphatase gene and phosphate limitation leads to substantial production of chicoric acid in Echinacea purpurea transgenic hairy roots.

A high level of the secondary metabolite chicoric acid is produced by intracellular Pi supply and extracellular phosphate limiting in Echinacea purpurea hairy roots. Chicoric acid (CA) is a secondary metabolite which is gained from Echinacea purpurea. It has been found to be one of the most potent HIV integrase inhibitors with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities.