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Abstract
A biotransformation process for the production of digoxin was developed using Digitalis
lanata cell suspension cultures. Digitoxin was used as the substrate for biotransformation.
Digoxin production was carried out in a variety of vessels, including 1-l exsiccators,
20-l glass reactors and a 300-l air-lift bioreactor. A culture volume of 200 l was
established after 28 d and the cells were then cultured semi-continuously in a 300-l
bioreactor employing the draw-fill cultivation method. Maximal digoxin production
was achieved in an 8% glucose medium with a production optimum after 40-60 h of incubation
in the presence of 0.65-0.8 mmol digitoxin per l. Levels of 0.52, 0.53 and 0.60 mmol
digoxin per l suspension were achieved in 1-l, 20-l and 300-l vessels, respectively.
About 80% of the digoxin produced was found in the bathing medium.