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Published on: March 1, 2014
Physiological behaviour of encapsulated somatic embryos
A Kersulec1, C Bazinet, F Corbineau
1Laboratoire de Technologie Enzymatique, URA 1442 du CNRS, Université de Technologie de Compiègne, France.
Summary
Encapsulating somatic embryos in alginate hydrogels can reduce germination and respiration rates, especially at higher concentrations or during storage. Solid media show greater sensitivity to capsule concentration than liquid media.
Area of Science:
- Plant Biotechnology
- Biomaterials Science
Background:
- Somatic embryos lack natural protection, possess low reserves, and have high water content.
- Alginate hydrogels offer a non-toxic, user-friendly encapsulation method for somatic embryos.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of alginate encapsulation on somatic embryo respiration and radicular elongation.
- To evaluate the influence of alginate concentration and environmental conditions on somatic embryo germination.
Main Methods:
- Somatic embryos were encapsulated in alginate hydrogels at varying concentrations.
- Germination rates were assessed in both liquid and solid media.
- Effects of anoxic treatment and one-month storage on germination were analyzed.
Main Results:
- Increased alginate concentration led to decreased respiration and germination rates.
- Germination rates showed minimal variation in liquid media across different alginate concentrations, with or without a PEI layer.
- Capsule concentration significantly affected germination rates on solid media.
Conclusions:
- Alginate concentration is a critical factor influencing somatic embryo germination, particularly in solid culture systems.
- Anoxic conditions and prolonged storage negatively impact somatic embryo viability and germination potential.
