Elicitation of Indole Alkaloid Biosynthesis in Periwinkle

Abstract

Until very recently (Eilert et al 1986), transfer of cells to alkaloid production medium was the only method available to induce indole alkaloid accumulation and enzymes involved in their biosynthesis. However, the slow rates of enzyme induction observed presented difficulties in performing detailed biochemical investigations. Eilert et al (1986) reported that elicitor treatment of Catharanthus cell suspension cultures stimulated production of indole alkaloids within 12–24 h after treatment and the alkaloid profile obtained was qualitatively and quantitatively identical to that obtained by cultivation of cells in alkaloid production medium.