Abstract
Taxol is amongst the most effective anti-cancer drugs available in market. The increasing demand of this compound due to its use in treating wide range of cancers, as well as its high cost have triggered efforts to find alternative ways to obtain this drug. Hazel (Corylus avellana), which is already cultivated for nutritional aspects, is now attracting attention for its phytochemical content. Notably the discovery of taxol and related taxanes in this plant species prompted extensive interest to explore biotechnological production of these compounds using in vitro cultures of C. avellana. This review emphasizes the potential of C. avellana cells for production of taxol and related taxanes. The botanical description of C. avellana, its pharmacological uses and various biotechnological approaches, such as micropropagation, cell culture and genetic engineering to increase the production of taxol and related taxanes are discussed. To present an overall overview, the experience of researchers working on these aspects is mentioned and major highlights or discoveries are presented. A review of the literature suggests that C. avellana may act as a commercial and alternative source for taxol production in an eco-friendly way, which will meet the ever-increasing demand, and also help reducing the cost of this anti-cancer compound.
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