Lignan production by Ipomoea callus from carbohydrates

Abstract

Lignans have proved to be interesting compounds for their possible antitumour, antiHIV and Ca2+ antagonist activity. The tropical climbing shrub Ipomoea cairica (L.) Sweet contains two particularly promising lignans, arctigenin and trachelogenin. Callus cultures were established from the plant to examine whether the lignan production is conserved in vitro. To modify the lignan production, carbohydrates in the medium were changed. Different sugars and sucrose levels were examined. Lignans were synthesized by the cultures, the sugar level and quality had a major influence on lignan production. © 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.