Dynamic variation of vinblastine content in Catharanthus roseus by hand harvest

The dynamic variation of vinblastine content in different parts of Cathar anthus roseus was measured by ultrasonic extraction and HPLC. The results show ed that hand harvest disturbed individual growth, and had influences on the synt hesis and accumulation of vinblastine. The biomass and vinblastine content of le aves and shoots decreased 20 days after harvest compared with pre-harvest. Bioma ss of different parts of Catharanthus roseus increased from 20 to 40 days af ter harvest, reaching to a stable level from 40 to 60 days after harvest. Vinblastine contents of roots, leaves and shoots 40 days after harvest were significantly higher than pre-harvest. Contents of the different parts 60 days after harvest were a little bit lower than pre-harvest. The total contents of vinblastine for individual plant decreased after harvest. This kind of variation of vinblastine content in Catharanthus roseus was proposed to be caused by vinblastine antagonistic reaction to environmental disturbance.