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ABSTRACT
Tribulus terrestris L. (Zygophyllaceae) is an annual medicinal plant, commonly known as Puncture vine. The Project “Complex investigations of Tribulus terrestris L. for sustainable use by pharmaceutical industry” supported by the National Science Fund of Bulgaria was launched in 2008. The studies were focused on the distribution of economically valuable genotypes and their resources in habitats, including protected zones of NATURA 2000. Also their threatening as a result of human activities and climatic changes was investigated. Phytochemical study and method development for the analysis and standardization of samples was performed. The content of the main saponins and their variability in habitats were investigated. Assessment of the physiological status, regulation of plant metabolism and gene expression were also performed. Improvement of the quality of plant material was achieved by using plant organic and mineral nutrition. The practical results of the project development are the evaluation and selection of perspective localities for collection of the plant material from the natural habitats and protocol development for the introduction and breeding of the species in field conditions. Conservation measures were proposed as a guarantee for the sustainable and rational use of Tribulus terrestris for resource purposes.