Plant Secondary metabolites production by<em> in vitro</em> culture

Abstract

Plant cell and tissue cultures are considered as an alternative source to the whole plant for the production of valuable compounds. Undifferentiated cell cultures have been extensively studied, but a large interest has also been shown in hairy roots and other organ cultures during the last years. Different in vitro strategies have been developed to increase the content of plant secondary metabolites. They have also allowed obtaining new substances, especially pharmaceuticals. The objective of this work was to approach the main scientific aspects about plant secondary metabolites production using in vitro culture. The in vitro techniques and strategies related with bioreactor culture, elicitation and metabolic engineering are notable as the most promising for the production of high-value secondary metabolites of industrial importance. This review deals with these aspects and future prospects for the production of valuable secondary metabolites in vitro. Key words: bioreactors, elicitors, metabolic engineering, natural compounds, organ culture