Optimum conditions for transformed Panax ginseng hairy roots in flask culture

Panax ginseng hairy roots were transformed by Agrobacterium rhizogenes KTCT 2744. They showed an active branching pattern and fast growth in hormone-free medium, and good growth at 23°C, pH 5.8, 1/2 MS medium, and 3% sucrose. Sucrose provided the highest growth among seven carbon sources tested. Six complex media were also tested. In the combined sugar study, hairy roots grew better on sucrose without glucose or fructose than with glucose or fructose. In the 1/2 MS basal medium, 30 mM in nitrogen and 0.62 mM phosphate salt concentration was the optimum. The growth ratio was maximal at an inoculum size of 0.4% (w/v). Crude saponin and polysaccharide levels were also measured.     

Production of biodiesel fuel by transesterification of rapeseed oil

Fatty acid methyl esters (FAMEs) show large potential applications as diesel substitutes, also known as biodiesel fuel. Biodiesel fuel as renewable energy is an alternative that can reduce energy dependence on petroleum as well as air pollution. Several processes for the production of biodiesel fuel have been developed. Transesterification processes under alkali catalysis with short-chain alcohols give high yields of methyl esters in short reaction times. We investigated transesterification of rapeseed oil to produce the FAMEs. Experimental reaction conditions were molar ratio of oil to alcohol, concentration of catalyst, type of catalyst, reaction time, and temperature. The conversion ratio of rapeseed oil was enhanced by the alcohol:oil mixing ratio and the reaction temperature.