Fungal elicitation and precursor feeding: a novel approach to boost alkaloid yield in Catharanthus roseus cell suspension cultures

Abstract Background : Medicinal plants are a crucial source of bioactive compounds with pharmaceutical applications. Catharanthus roseus is widely recognized for its production of terpenoid indole alkaloids, including vincristine and vinblastine, which are used in cancer treatments. However, their natural production is low, necessitating alternative strategies to enhance their yield. Results : This study investigates the effect of Piriformospora indica extract elicitation and tryptophan precursor feeding on the production of vincristine and vinblastine in C. roseus suspension cultures. Cell suspensions were treated with different concentrations of P. indica extract (0%, 2%, 4%, and 6% v/v) for 48 and 72 hours. Growth efficiency, total phenolic (TPC) and total flavonoid (TFC) content, and alkaloid levels were analyzed. The results revealed that 4% P. indica extract for 48 hours significantly increased fresh and dry weight. The highest TPC (8.82 mg GAL/g FW) and TFC (6.24 mg GAL/g FW) were observed at 6% P. indica extract during 48 hours exposure time. The maximum vinblastine (0.31 µg/g) and vincristine (634.7 µg/g) accumulation was achieved at 4% and 2% P. indica extract, respectively, for 48 hours. Conclusion :These findings suggest that P. indica extract elicitation, coupled with precursor feeding, can enhance the biosynthesis of pharmacologically valuable alkaloids in C. roseus suspension cultures, providing an effective biotechnological approach for sustainable alkaloid production.