High –yield production of antifungal saponins using transformed cell suspension cultures of the Mexican species Solanum chrysotrichum

Abstract

Solanum chrysotrichum (Solanaceae) is used in Mexico to treat skin mycosis. Six novel antifungal spirostanol saponins (SC-1– SC-6), were identified as the active principles [1,2]. Production of the saponins is low and varies according to geographical and ontogenic conditions. Transformed calluses and cell suspension cultures were initiated. The cell line C58 5.1.1 was selected, and batch cultures of C58 5.1.1 were established. The production of the saponins (SC-2, SC-3, and SC-4) was quantified by HPLC, The production of SC-2, which represents the most active saponin, was forty times greater than that observed in leaves of wild plants.