In vitro propagation and secondary metabolite production in of Beaumontia grandiflora, Wall (Apocynaceae)

Abstract

A simple protocol for in vitro propagation of Beaumontia grandiflora, Wall (Apocynaceae) has been established. Beaumontia grandiflora is a woody, latex bearing climber cultivated throughout the world for its beautiful flowers. It is used in medicinal preparations for modulating steroidogenic activity. B. grandiflora is known to possess steroidal alkaloids and flavonoids. Antioxidant as well as antifertility activity have been demonstrated by extracts of B. grandiflora. So far there are no reports on in vitro propagation of Beaumontia grandiflora. Therefore present work was undertaken. BA(6 Benzylaminopurine) in MS medium positively influenced in vitro shoot growth. 80% bud induction was obtained on MS medium supplemented 8 µM BA. 10µM IBA (3-indole butyric acid) induced 70% rooting in Beaumontia grandiflora. Preliminary phytochemical investigations were carried out for in vivo plant material mainly for alkaloids. TLC of ethanolic extracts of stem bark showed presence of Camptothecin, an anticancer compound. Further confirmation will be carried out by using HPLC.