Optimization of ginseng cell culture in airlift bioreactors and developing the large-scale production system

Abstract

Ginseng cell suspension culture was established in 5l capacity balloon type airlift bioreactors using Murashige and Skoog medium supplemented with 7mgl−1 indole butyric acid, 0.5mgl−1 kinetin and 30gl−1 sucrose. Various parameters such as types of bioreactors (cylinder, balloon, bulb and cone type bioreactors), aeration volume (0.05, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3vvm constant air supply or the amount air supply was increased from 0.05 to 0.3vvm at 6-day intervals), and inoculum density (40, 60, 80 and 100gl−1) were optimized. Balloon type airlift bioreactors, aeration volume of 0.1vvm, and inoculum density of 60gl−1 were found suitable for accumulation of ginseng cell biomass and ginsenosides. Based on optimized results, 500l capacity large-scale drum type and balloon type bioreactors were established for the production of ginsenosides. Optimal yield of 187kg and 400kg fresh biomass and 6.2kg and 13.3kg dry biomass, 7.86mgg−1 DW and 7.75 mgg−1 DW total ginsenosides could be achieved in 500l capacity drum and balloon type bioreactors respectively. These results are useful for commercial production of ginseng cell biomass and secondary metabolites.