Taxoid profile in endophytic fungi isolated from Corylus avellana, introduces potential source for the production of Taxol in semi-synthetic approaches

Taxol (Paclitaxel) and its derivative taxanes are widely used in chemotherapy and treatment of different types of cancer. Although the extracted taxanes from Taxus sp. are currently used in semi-synthetic production of Taxol, providing alternative always available sources is still a main concern. Due to availability and fast growth rate, microorganisms are much potent alternative sources for taxanes. In the present study, 249 endophytic fungi were isolated from Corylus avellana at six different locations of Iran, among which 18 species were capable to produce taxanes. Genotyping analysis indicated that 17 genera were ascomycetes but only one basidiomycete. Seven taxanes were detected and quantified in solid and suspension cultures by HPLC and their structures were confirmed by LC-Mass analysis. Among endophytes, CA7 had all 7 taxoids and CA1 had the highest Taxol yield. In 78% of endophytes transferring to liquid media was accompanied by increase of taxanes yield and increased taxan production and its release to media up to 90%. Evaluation of cytotoxicity indicated that extracts of all isolated fungi were lethal to MCF7 cells. Since endophytes produced remarkable amounts of taxanes, they can be suggested as alternative inexpensive and easily available resources for Taxol production in semi-synthesis plans.