In vitro cultures of Ruta graveolens ssp. divaricata as a potential biotechnological source of phenolic compounds

Plant metabolites with phenolic structure, like phenolic acids and phenolic glycosides, including the hydroquinone β-D-glucoside, arbutin, are therapeutically important groups of compounds. Our preliminary studies have proven that the cells from Ruta graveolens ssp. divaricata (Tenore) Gams (Rutaceae) in vitro cultures* are capable of both the endogenous accumulation of free phenolic acids and the biotransformation of exogenous hydroquinone into arbutin [1]. The next stage of our studies aimed to optimize both processes. Methods: Accumulation of phenolic acids. Stationary liquid cultures and agitated cultures we…