Alkaloid formation by Catharanthus roseus cells in a packed column biofilm reactor

Summary Catharanthusroseus cells producing indole alkaloids were grown on surfaces of Ca-alginate beads within the interspacial volume of a packed column. Production media was circulated through the packed column in an upflow mode. Growth and indole alkaloid formation were quantified and compared with suspension culture of cells. Final alkaloid concentration and alkaloid yield obtained in the packed bed was superior to those obtained in suspension culture. This is thought to be due to improved cell-cell contact and interaction in the packed column.