Methyl Jasmonate Activates the 2C Methyl-D-erithrytol 2,4-cyclodiphosphate Synthase Gene and Stimulates Tanshinone Accumulation in Salvia miltiorrhiza Solid Callus Cultures

The study explored the impact of methyl jasmonate (MeJa) on tanshinone accumulation in Salvia miltiorrhiza callus cultures. MeJa treatment, particularly at 50-100 μM, led to a biphasic increase in tanshinone levels, with peaks at 10-20 and 50-60 days. The dominant tanshinones were cryptotanshinone and dihydrotanshinone. MeJa was found to activate the 2C-methyl-D-erythritol 2,4-cyclodiphosphate synthase gene and enhance the expression of genes in the MEP and MVA pathways, crucial for tanshinone biosynthesis. However, higher concentrations (250-500 μM) inhibited callus growth. The study concluded that MeJa could effectively stimulate tanshinone production, offering insights into its regulatory mechanisms and potential for enhancing medicinal compound production.