Bioproduction of diosgenin in callus cultures of Trigonella foenum-graecum L.

The production of the steroidal sapogenin, diosgenin, by callus cultures of Trigonella foenum-graecum L. (fenugreek) is described. The levels of this secondary compound were examined by high performance liquid chromatography with a diode-array detector, and its identity was confirmed by mass spectrometry. The levels of diosgenin detected in leaf callus exceeded the levels detected in stem and root calli. The diosgenin levels accumulated in leaf, stem and root calli at 45 days (maximum production) represent 22, 10 and 27%, respectively, of the levels detected in the corresponding organs of the mother plant at 45 days.