Production of lignans in calluses of Schisandra chinensis.

Calluses were induced from leaves of Schisandra chinensis Baillon (Schisandraceae). Murashige-Skoog (MS) and Woody Plant (WP) media were used for the induction, in full and half strength (1/2 MS or 1/2 WP) salt formulations. Test media were solidified with 0.25% gelrite and supplemented with 2% sucrose and various concentrations and combinations of 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D), kinetin (Kin), 3-indolebutyric acid (IBA), and 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP). Optimal conditions for callus induction and growth were found to be 1/2 MS medium containing 0.02 mg/l Kin and 0.2 mg/l 2,4-D. Chloroform extracts of all induced calluses contained gomisin A and F as major components. Gomisin A and F contents of calluses that were cultured under the optimal conditions mentioned above were highest compared to the calluses incubated with other combinations of plant hormones and media. Subculture, by repeated transfer of cultured calluses to fresh medium, caused no decrease in the production of gomisin A and F. Optimal conditions for lignan production were found to be 1/2 MS medium supplemented with 0.05 mg/1 Kin and 0.2 mg/l 2,4-D. Under these conditions, gomisin A and gomisin F contents were 0.05 and 0.04% of callus dry weight, respectively.