Biochemicals from cultured Plant Cells - Cultured plant cells are known to produce biochemicals of interest since 1950’s, but initially the yields were very low. Refined culture systems have improved the biochemical yields considerably, an over half a dozen cell cultures produce 2 g/l or more Of the biochemical. Shikonin (a naphthoquinone) is produced on a commercial scale from cell cultures of Lithospermum erythrorhizon, while berberine (an alkaloid) is obtained from Coptis japonica cell cultures. Interestingly, Ginseng tissues produced in vitro are used as additives in tonic drinks, wines, soups, herbal liquours, etc.

The biochemicals obtained from plant cell cultures are comparable to those derived from intact plants in their chemical, biochemical and biological properties. In addition, cultured cells of many plant species produce novel biochemicals, which have so far not been detected in whole plants.