Camptothecin accumulation in Camptotheca acuminata seedlings in response to acetylsalicylic acid treatment

Camptothecin is an anti-cancer alkaloid. Acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) treatment was evaluated as a potential tool for increasing camptothecin accumulation (concentration and yield) in Camptotheca acuminata. Increasing ASA concentration increased leaf camptothecin concentration, but stunted growth and decreased total leaf camptothecin yield. Thus, ASA treatment does not enhance camptothecin yield. Key words: Hydroponic culture, plant secondary metabolite