RESUMO
Object To investigate the synthesis of alkaloids by cell suspension cultures of Datura metel L. Methods Cultured cells derived from leaves of D. metel were m aintained in Murashige and Skoog (MS) liquid medium. The effects of different c arbohydrated, different inoculum sizes, and different pH values of medium as aff ecting facters on cell growth and alkaloid formation were studied. Re sults The optimum carbohydrate was sucrose, inoculum size (1.5 - 2. 0 g/L) for fresh weight and initial pH values (5.5-6.0) of the medium were benefit for cell growth and alkaloid synthesis in the suspension cultures. The synthesis of alk aloids was improved when exogenous phenylalanine added to the culture. Conclusion Suspension-cultured cells of D. metel c an be used to synthesize alkaloids.