Abstract: The current invention provides plant promoter sequences. Compositions comprising these promoter sequence are described, as are plants transformed with such compositions. Further provided are methods for the expression of transgenes in plants comprising the use of these sequences. The methods of the invention include the direct creation of transgenic plants with the promoters by genetic transformation, as well as by plant breeding methods. The sequences of the invention represent valuable new tools for the creation of transgenic plants, preferably having one or more added beneficial characteristics.

Abstract: The invention provides methods for the isolation of plant genes and their regulatory sequences involved in the biosynthesis of triterpene saponins. Also provided by the invention are genes involved in the biosynthesis of triterpenes, including squalene synthase, squalene epoxidase and &bgr;-amyrin synthase from Medicago truncatula. The identification of triterpene biosynthesis genes allows genetic modification of the content and composition of triterpene saponins in plants for crop improvement and the development of drugs, nutriceuticals and functional foods.