Production of 4-ipomeanol, an anticancer agent from the root tubers and rhizogenic callus of Ipomoea batatas Lam.: a comparative study.

A comparative study was done on the production of 4-ipomeanol from root tubers of Ipomoea batatas and its rhizogenic callus. Best callusing response was obtained on MS medium supplemented with 11 μM NAA (α-Naphthaleneacetic acid) and 1 μM KIN (Kinetin). Effect of various elicitors (Fusarium solani, chitin and chitosan) on the production of 4-ipomeanol was studied. Methanol extract of the samples were purified by column chromatography and detected using TLC. Identification of 4-ipomeanol was confirmed using HPLC and quantified spectrophotometrically. A mass spectrum was recorded to confirm the presence of 4-ipomeanol. The calli grown under chitin produced highest (6.61mg g(-1)) amount of 4-ipomeanol. This is the first report on in vitro production of 4-ipomeanol from I. batatas. Since 4-ipomeanol is reported to be present only in I. batatas, this study would help in standardizing protocols for large scale production without affecting its natural flora.