Somatic embryogenesis

		Micropropagation is a very efficient tool for propagation of a genetic material obtained by plant breeders. This is of a special interest in this case of ligneous species predominantly allogamous where the “elite plants” cannot be multiplied through seeds or even through classical horticulture. Somatic embryogenesis, especially with cell suspensions, offers a powerful tool for multiplication.
CIRAD has been involved for many years in that field of research for two main purposes i) mastering the whole process for a true-to-type multiplication, taking into account the risk of somaclonal variation, ii) using embryogenic cell suspensions as targets for genetic transformation. All studies have been carried out with the help of histological surveys from the chosen explant to the regeneration of vitroplantlets. Field experiments are also going on to verify the conformity with the mother plant (e.g. banana) or to validate the utility of the process (e.g. rubber tree).

Banana Cocoa Coconut Coffee Oil palm Rice Rubber tree