Somatic embryogenesis and plant regeneration from stem explants of Leptadenia reticulata (Retz.) Wight. & Arn.

Abstract

Somatic embryogenesis and plant regeneration from stem explants of Leptadenia reticulata (Asclepeadaceae), an endangered medicinal plant possessing galactogogue property and rich alkaloid content, have been reported. Murashige and Skoog’s medium supplemented with MS + 3% sucrose + NAA (2.68 μM) + BAP (4.40 μM) was the best for callus formation as well as pre-embryonic mass (PEM) induction. Of the two subculture conditions tested for proper embryo induction, MS liquid medium proved superior over solid culture medium in inducing healthy embryos. Presence of NAA in the induction medium was also found to be critical for PEM formation, as the callus raised without it could not be triggered for embryogenesis in any of the subsequent subcultures. The resulting embryoids on transferring to Murashige and Skoog’s basal as well as other cytokinin containing medium attained maturation with varied frequencies, of which MS basal medium triggered maximum response compared to other cytokinin containing medium. The so-developed shoots on transferring to half strength MS + IBA (4. 90 μM) developed vigorous tap root system, which were later hardened on peat mass mixture with 75% survival.