Preliminary results of indole alkaloids production in different roots of Catharanthus roseus cultured in vitro

Abstract

Six groups of untransformed and hairy root cultures of Catharunthus roseus (L.) G. Don were established. Agrobacterium rhizogenes strains: ATCC 15834, LBA 9403, and TR 105 were used for infection of the 3-week old rooted plantlets of C. roseus. The highest contents of examined indole alkaloids were found in: roots of intact plants - yohimbine and serpentine; in hairy roots - catharanthine. Vinblastine and ajmalicine were detected in untransformed roots of plants regenerated in vitro, and transferred to the soil for 5 months.

Keywords

• root cultures
• indole alkaloids
• Catharanthus roseus
• Agrobacterium rhizogenes