Inoculum size and auxin concentration influence the growth of adventitious roots and accumulation of ginsenosides in suspension cultures of ginseng (Panax ginseng CA Meyer)

The effect of the root-inoculum size and axuin concentration on growth of adventitious roots and accumulation of ginsenosides were studied during suspension cultures of ginseng (Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer). Of the various concentrations of indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) and gamma-naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA) used as supplementary growth regulators along with Murashige and Skoog medium, 25 mu M IBA was found suitable for lateral root induction and growth, as well as accumulation of ginsenosides. Inoculum size of 5 g L-1 was found suitable for optimal biomass (10.5 g L-1 dry biomass) and ginsenosides (5.4 mg g(-1) DW) accumulation. Of the various length of root inocula tested (chopped to 1-3, 4-6, 7-10 mm and un-chopped), root inocula of 7-10 mm was found suitable for biomass and ginsenoside accumulation.