An efficient method for the rapid micropropagation of Camptotheca acuminata from axillary buds was established by application of various plant growth regulators. Among various cytokinins, 0.5 mg L-1 BA showed the best performance on shoot multiplication, number average multiple shoots up to 10.8. The propagated shoot cuttings in vitro were elongated on NN basal medium without plant growth regulators. The secondary multiple shoots were induced at the site of initially induced buds. Rooting was induced directly near the base of the shoot on half-strength NN medium containing 0.5 mg L-1 of IBA, whereas high concentration of 1.0 mg L-1 IBA could induce callus at the base of the shoot. The camptothecin content, anticancer compound of the micropropagated plants was contained in various tissues. Camptothecin contents were 1.8 and 2.5 mg g-1 dry weight in stems from propagated in vitro and mother plant, respectively. This result may be used to develop strategies for large-scale propagation of elite C. acuminata trees.

Camptotheca acuminata, a native of South China is a well known natural source of monoterpene-indole alkaloid camptothecin(CPT), one of the most promising anti-tumoural compounds. This study was conducted to optimize plant growth regulators and culture conditions on plantlets regeneration through organogenesis from callus of Camptotheca acuminta. Callus were induced from various explants of in vitro germinated plantlets of C. acuminta using WPM medium containing 0.2 ㎎/L 2,4-D. Hypocotyl segments were exhibited higher embryogenic callus than the other explants. Shoot buds formation from embryogenic callus was affected by plant growth regulators, pre-treated dark condition and liquid culture. Organogenesis was optimal in WPM liquid medium containing 0.5 ㎎/L BA. The dark pre-treatment for 2 weeks before the solid culture was effective for organogenesis. The regenerated shoots were rooted in WPM medium with 0.2 ㎎/L NAA and successfully acclimated in green-house conditions.