The physic nut (Jatropha curcas L.) is gaining importance because of its potential as raw material for biodiesel. Studies aiming the adequacy of agronomic techniques and tissue culture contribute, indirectly, to this aspect, helping applied research as biotechnology, in situations that aim plant regeneration. Therefore, it is essential to evaluate, the behavior of primary metabolites during the callus growing season. The callus mass at the inoculation time showed no carbohydrates reserve. At the 42nd day the sucrose absorption started in the medium, while the accumulation in the explant occurred from the 98th day of cultivation. Amino acid content was high at the inoculation's day and around the 98th day, both amino acids and protein levels decreased.
Jatropha curcas L.; carbohydrates; proteins; amino acids