Optimization of callus induction and ephedrine production in Ephedra major

Ephedrin is the most important alkaloid in Ephedrawhich used as anti-asthmatic medicine. The aim of current study was optimization of callus induction for ephedrine production in tissue culture condition. In the current work the effect of different concentration of 2,4-D and Kin (0, 0.5, 1 and 2 mg/l) was investigated on callus induction of stem explants. The experiment was performed in complete randomized test. For this purpose, seeds were collected from Bojnoordelevations and then planted in forest soil. After 5 months, stem explants were transferred to MS medium supplemented with 2,4-D and Kin. The results showed that the highest percentage of callus formation and total alkaloid amount were observed at 0.5 and 0.5 mg/L 2,4-D and Kin. Meanwhile, Ephedrine measurement by HPLC methods showed that the highest amount of ephedrine (0.053 mg/g Dry weight) was observed in callus which induced in MS medium supplemented with 2 and 0.5 mg/l of 2,4-D and Kin.In conclusion, the current result showed that the callus which is produced by the explant can be used to make ephedrine in tissue culture condition.