Production of bioactive compounds from cell and organ cultures of Centella asiatica

Centella asiatica, commonly known as mandukaparni, has garnered recognition for its efficacy in addressing a spectrum of health concerns. Its diverse pharmacological properties encompass roles in treating neuro-related issues, gastrointestinal problems, and cardiovascular conditions. Furthermore, it exhibits multifaceted therapeutic effects, including antioxidant, antidiabetic, wound healing, skin protective, and anti-osteoporotic properties. This herbaceous plant is rich in bioactive compounds such as centellosides (triterpene saponins) including madecassoside, madecassic acid, asiatic acid, and asiaticoside. These compounds, crucial for their pharmacological potential, are biosynthetically produced through the mevalonate and methylerythritol phosphate pathways. However, the challenge lies in the production of these important secondary metabolites, given the adverse impact on the availability of mandukaparni due to increasing demand. To address this concern, this chapter emphasizes the biotechnological interventions for the production of bioactive phytochemicals. These include plant tissue culture techniques, such as cell and organ cultures, along with elicitation strategies, genetic engineering approaches, and bioreactor-scale production. These methods aim to enhance the sustainable production of centellosides, providing valuable insights for researchers and paving the way for future opportunities in the field of plant-based therapeutics.