Basil (Ocimum L.) cell and organ culture for the secondary metabolites production: a review

Species from the genus Ocimum L. (basil) are among the most cultivated plants due to their large content of secondary metabolites, in particular essential oils and phenolic compounds. Still, different conditions of basil cultivation cause significant variations of quantitative and qualitative characteristics of material originating from basil plants. The application of plant tissue culture to produce biologically active compounds is a well-established alternative to the cultivation of whole plants. It provides the opportunity to obtain biotechnologically valuable plant characteristics, including a high content of secondary metabolites such as phenolic acids and flavonoids for the shortest period. The present paper summarizes the most cultivated basil genotypes worldwide and data about the mass propagation, somatic embryogenesis, basil cell and organ cultures, together with the main properties regarding the enhanced synthesis of secondary metabolites under tissue culture conditions. For most of the studies, increased synthesis of biologically active compounds (in particular phenolic acids, isoprenoids, and flavonoids) can be seen. However, for many of them, information regarding the used genotype or origin of plant material is missing. Considering the large number of species and cultivars belonging to the genus Ocimum L., appropriate utilization can provide maximal exploitation. Understanding how particular genotypes respond to specific conditions, treatments, and types of culture for enhancing the production of secondary metabolites could be the basis in designing protocols and further progress. Key message In this review, we described recent progress in secondary metabolites production of Ocimum L. species. The content of secondary metabolites, mainly phenolics and flavonoids, can be enhanced by various types of in vitro cultures.