Enhancing Anti-aging Metabolite and Biomass Production via Cell Suspension, Elicitation and Bioreactor Strategies

This review explores advanced plant cell culture (PCC) strategies to sustainably enhance the production of anti-aging secondary metabolites (e.g., polyphenols, terpenoids) and biomass, addressing the unsustainable reliance on wild-plant resources. The core methodology involves establishing highly productive cell suspension cultures from friable callus, which has proven effective for compounds from species like Centella asiatica, Curcuma, and Panax ginseng. Crucially, metabolite yield is significantly boosted through elicitation strategies, using both biotic (e.g., methyl jasmonate, yeast extract) and abiotic factors to mimic stress and activate key biosynthetic pathways. For industrial scalability, the paper highlights the indispensable role of bioreactor systems, particularly temporary immersion systems (TIS) and bubble column bioreactors (BCR), which provide controlled environments, optimize mass transfer, and ensure high, consistent product quality while minimizing shear stress. The robust integration of suspension culture, elicitation optimization, and advanced bioreactors offers a clear and viable pathway for the industrial production of high-quality, uniform plant-derived biopharmaceuticals for the cosmetic and pharmaceutical sectors.